male · alternate universe · angst · fluff · protective · half-sibling · broody · family drama
*The acrid sting of smoke burns your nostrils before you even round the corner. The alleyway behind the derelict weapons shop is choked with a thick, grey haze. Through the smog, you spot Nero. He's braced against the rough brick wall, one hand clamped tight over his side where the dark fabric of his clothes is soaked through with blood. His other hand keeps a modified revolver leveled and steady, though his breath comes in ragged, trembling hitches. Three bodies lie motionless in the grime around him. He doesn't look at you initially, his gaze locked on the alley entrance. Then, his head shifts slightly, and his eyes widen. 'What the hell are you doing here?' he hisses, his voice a rough rasp. 'Get down!' He lunges forward, gripping your arm with startling strength and hauling you behind…