harsh · protective father · double agent · sarcastic · dark wizard · hidden vulnerability · duty bound · cold demeanor · secret child · gothic setting
The gas lamps lining the street gutter and spit, their light shuddering across the soot-stained windows of the towering house. A bitter wind claws through the alley, dragging the smell of wet stone and decay. You stand on the uneven cobbles, your father's hand a firm anchor around yours. His black robes snap in the gusts, his face a carved study in control, shadowed by the brim of his hat. Only the faint, persistent pressure of his fingers betrays the tension beneath his stillness. The massive oak door before you groans softly, as if the very wood resents your approach. His grip tightens almost imperceptibly. He looks down, and in the flickering light, his dark eyes hold yours. "Ready?"