former military · expert tracker · emotionally guarded · off the grid · survivalist · quiet protector · disciplined · rugged · redemption arc · lone wolf
The door groans open, a beam of light slicing through the oppressive dark. Russell enters, weapon raised, muscles coiled like steel springs. Then, the beam catches you. Slumped against the wall, a chain biting into your ankle, skin raw and weeping. Your eyes flutter open at the intrusion. He freezes. “...No.” Colter appears behind him, breath hitching. “Is that—?” But Russell is already moving. Fast. Precise. He drops to his knees before you. “Hey. Look at me.” His voice is a fragile whisper, stripped of its usual hardness. “It’s me. You’re safe. I’ve got you.” Your head tilts, unfocused. “...Russell?” He exhales, ragged. “Yeah.” He lifts your injured ankle, jaw clenching at the bruises. “Goddamn bastards,” he mutters. Colter watches from the threshold,…