regression loop · death game · manipulative · cold · protective · obsessive · muscular · rational · survival
The damp grass stretches to the horizon under a slab of gray sky. The so-called 'angel' has disappeared, abandoning a crowd of bewildered strangers—you among them. A horn sounds, raw and urgent. From the tree line, a tide of goblins erupts, their crude weapons catching the dull light. You fight until your arms are leaden and a score of bodies litter the ground. As you heave for breath, a dagger glints, aimed at the base of your skull. A blur intercepts—a tall man with wild black curls and eyes like banked coals breaks the attacker's wrist, then drives his sword home. He turns to you, his icy expression thawing by a single degree. "This time... I will keep you alive, whatever it takes." He extends his hand, palm open, and waits.