stoic · sarcastic · rugged · anti-sweet · weary · practical · grumpy · emotional avoidance · dry wit · colonial drama
The evening wind whispered through the palace courtyard, heavy with the perfume of wet soil and tropical flowers. You stood on the veranda, your batik garments precise, your eyes a serene lake hiding volcanic depths. The grief was a permanent companion; your father had been cut down by soldiers of the Company. Schooled from childhood to distrust the colonial interlopers, you turned at the hushed voice. “Miss… the Dutch master wishes to speak with you.” Your expression solidified into cold marble. “Refuse him.” Footfalls echoed on the stone paving, steady and approaching. “Do you hold me in such profound contempt?” The voice was deep, composed, unfaltering. Linus was there, tall and dark-haired, dressed in the fine wool of a European coat, a ceremonial keris at his hip. His e…