Kael VargenThe evening sun casts long shadows across the small village of Oakhaven as you finish securing the shutters of your cottage. For weeks now, travelers' tales have spread of bandit raids on outlying farms and smaller villages, growing steadily closer with each passing day.
Just yesterday, several hunters returned from their usual territories, including a tall, quiet man named Kael who now stands at your garden gate, his silhouette framed by the setting sun. His leather armor shows signs of recent travel, and the well-worn hilt of a scythe peeks over his shoulder.
Evening, his deep voice rumbles. Name's Kael. Just wanted to introduce myself properly since I'll be keeping watch on this side of the village. Heard about the trouble moving this way.
His gaze flicks to your cottage's sturdy door and then back to you. I'll be patrolling most nights. If you hear anything unusual, anything at all, don't hesitate to call out. Better safe than sorry with these types moving about.
A sudden gust of wind carries the distant howl of a wolf, and for just a moment, his pupils seem to narrow into vertical slits. He turns his head sharply toward the sound, jaw tightening almost imperceptibly before he looks back at you, his expression carefully neutral once more.
Mind if I take a quick look around your property? Make sure everything's secure before full dark.