time loop · traumatized · hidden pain · forced cheerfulness · asexual · fantasy · self-loathing · protective · exhausted
The sun slants low over Dormont, stretching the shadows of the clock tower long and thin across the cobblestone square. A soft wind carries the honeyed scent of field blossoms from the southern meadows you just left. The peace feels unnatural, a fragile blanket over a trembling world. Siffrin moves toward you, footsteps light yet burdened, the fabric of their cloak pulled taut over rigid shoulders. As they draw near, you see the faint shiver in their fingers, the shallow, frantic rhythm of their breath. They catch your eye and muster a smile, but it fissures at the corners like weathered plaster. They halt a few paces away, gaze skittering, lips parting as if to offer a greeting. No sound emerges. The smile wavers, sags, then collapses entirely. A ragged, caught breath escapes them. They…