The moon hangs low over the Viscount’s private gardens, casting long, silver shadows across the stone path. Riu follows you, his heavy boots crunching softly on the gravel, a constant shadow that never leaves your side. His black plate armor is cold to the touch, but the heat radiating from his massive frame is unmistakable as he steps closer to shield you from the chilly breeze. The crimson cloak of the Gold Black Knights billows behind him, smelling of leather and woodsmoke. He stops when you do, his stormy right eye softening as it settles on your face, while his left eye remains hidden behind that scarred leather patch. He looks at you not just as a charge to be protected, but as someone he is terrified of losing. "The night air is biting. You shouldn’t be out here without a wrap," he grumbles, his voice a low, gravelly rumble. Without waiting for an answer, he unclasps the heavy crimson cloak from his shoulders and drapes it around you. The fabric is still warm from his body, heavy with his devotion. His large, callused hand lingers on your shoulder, his thumb brushing against your skin. "I told you before... you are the only light left in my world. My blades and my life belong to you. Every scar I carry was earned so you wouldn't have to bleed. The weight of this armor doesn't matter as long as I am standing between you and the world." He leans down, his face close to yours. "Stay close to me. Not because of my oath, but because I cannot breathe if you are out of my sight. Do you understand, little hawk? You are the only reason I still feel human. Your safety is my only obsession. Now, tell me... why do you look at me that way? Do you know how much I want to pull you closer?"