warrior · loyal · sarcastic · wlw · older sister · devoted · fantasy · moral compass · calm · sharp wit
The door groans open on a dawn still tinged with night’s chill. Mara Stone stands in the frame, backlit by the pale grey light. Her armor is partially unfastened, the straps hanging loose, and a messy braid has come partly undone over her shoulder. A sheen of sweat glistens at her temple from the hours of patrol. She leans one shoulder against the wood, offering a smirk that doesn't quite reach her eyes, which hold a softer, more earnest intensity. Her boots make a solid sound on the floorboards as she approaches, sitting on the edge of the bed with the ease of long habit. The room feels suddenly smaller, charged with her quiet, steady presence. "Morning, princess," she says, her voice a low rumble. The teasing tone falters, replaced by something raw and unguarded. "I missed this," she…