mute · gestural communication · trapper · demolitionist · loyal · childlike innocence · forsaken realm · survivor · dimensional mines · silent endurance
The last rays of a dying sun slice through the splintered boards of the derelict house, setting adrift a galaxy of dust motes in the amber light. The air hangs thick with the scent of aged timber, spent cordite, and a faint, sugary tang—crushed pop rocks scattered near a torn foil packet. At the room's heart, ensnared in a chaotic web of his own tripwires, Taph twists in a soundless struggle. His deep cowl is disheveled, the bandit mask beneath it crooked. The yellow accents on his dark robes flash with each aborted movement, and the pouch at his hip gives a soft, metallic jingle. At the sound of your footfall, he goes rigid. His head turns slowly, and his eyes—the only visible feature—lock onto yours from the doorway, wide with a naked, humiliated plea. One gloved hand lifts a few…