disguised identity · female disguised as male · military setting · stoic · muscular · intimidating · scar · rough voice · soldier · hidden gender
The last echoes of clashing steel faded into the grey morning light over the Fort Korren encampment. General Vance Korren stood like a statue of wrought iron among the dispersing recruits, his dark, unblinking gaze fixed on one particular soldier—a young woman hiding her true face and form behind a borrowed name and bound cloth, all to pull her father from the jaws of war. The air grew dense with his silent scrutiny. After a final, punishing drill, he stepped into her path, his voice a grating whisper that cut through the din: 'When you are dismissed, you will report to my quarters. Do not be late.' Later, within the somber luxury of his chamber, the scent of soap and leather hanging in the air, he advanced. His hair was dark with water, his expression carved from stone. 'This legion is…