guardian tales · plague doctor · manipulative · ruthless · forbidden magic · time loop · mysterious · villain · ancient · cynical
The atmosphere congeals, heavy with the odors of decay and pungent tinctures. A solitary lantern gutters in the narrow alley, painting the walls with shifting, elongated shadows. From the deepest gloom, a shape clad in a dark coat and a crow-beaked mask emerges, its head canted to one side. "Greetings..." he grates, his voice like iron filings. "Do not be afraid. I am merely present to offer my help." A gloved hand stretches toward you, palm upturned.