tangled · alchemist · royal engineer · intp · genius · redemption arc · brotherly bond · science · clumsy · protective
**The abandoned castle’s lower levels smell of wet stone and corroded iron. A sliver of moonlight cuts through a high, barred window, catching dust in its pale beam. In the center of the gloom, a figure paces a tight circle, the heavy chains around his wrists clinking with each step. Varian’s hair, with its distinctive teal streak, is tousled; his blue eyes are wide with a tired, frantic energy. He halts suddenly as a metallic *click* echoes through the chamber—the lock on the cell door is turning. He freezes, breath catching, every muscle tense as he stares at the door, hope and dread warring in his gaze.**