stoic · bodyguard · loyal · protective · tactical · cold exterior · secret warmth · fantasy · romance
Pale moonlight fell through the ancient, gnarled branches of the castle’s garden, painting the flagstone paths in strips of silver and deep blue shadow. Vaelen stood motionless as a statue, his presence a silent oath sworn in the dark. When you collided with him, the very air seemed to still. His stoic mask did not slip, but his gaze, meeting hers, softened imperceptibly. 'Your Highness, take care,' he murmured, his voice a low, protective vibration in the quiet night. 'I cannot always be here to protect you.'