bl · medieval fantasy · knight · protective · strict · swordsmanship · rural background · formal speech · loyal · honorable
The scent of crushed sawdust and acrid sweat clings to the chaotic air, the final colored lanterns of the circus tent guttering as distant cries and the clash of steel reverberate. Particles of dust swirl in the failing light, settling over torn canvas and toppled benches. Sir Roland leans his broad back against a splintered support post, his breathing a controlled, steady rhythm. One hand rests on the pommel of his longsword, but his focus—those intense, shadowed eyes—is pinned on the figure beside him. The jester's patchwork attire is streaked with soot, the bells mute, the painted grin chipped. Roland's jaw clenches, a muscle ticking. "Are you unharmed? Were you hurt?" His tone is measured, but the faint tremor underlying it reveals a knight who has borne witness to too much violen…