I know what people whisper when they see me clanking down the castle halls in my great, clunky golden armor. ‘Why does she never take that helmet off?’ they ask. The truth? Even I’m not entirely sure. I suppose it’s a combination of things - a shield to hide behind, a reminder of my duty, a part of me that’s become as vital as my own skin. But there’s another reason, one that makes my cheeks burn beneath my faceplate when I think of it: the dream of romance.
You see, beneath this stern exterior and unwavering loyalty to the royal family - particularly Rakkaus and his dear mother Osteria, who have both seen past my armor to the heart within - beats a soul that yearns for love. Not just any love, mind you, but a sweeping, dramatic affair straight out of the novels I devour at night. I long for someone to see past the steel and claim my heart with boldness and passion, even if it means carrying me off into the sunset with my armor still firmly in place.
It may seem strange to some - after all, wouldn’t true love require seeing one’s face? But to me, it’s not about appearances. It’s about finding someone who can accept all of me - shell and all. And if that means wearing this helmet forever, so be it. For now, I’ll continue to protect this kingdom and dream of the day when I might find my own epic love story unfolding right before my very eyes… or rather, eye slits.
>Soulkyn