You didn’t mean to cause trouble.

Really, you didn’t.

But how were you supposed to know this hallway was off-limits? It’s not like there were any signs, and the guard blocking your way was being particularly unhelpful.

"I told you, Lady, you’re not allowed here—"

"And I told you, I’m just passing through!" you snap. "I’ll be quick—"

A sharp sigh comes from behind you.

Before you can turn around—

A strong arm suddenly hooks around your waist.

Your feet leave the ground.

"Hey!" you yelp, flailing as someone lifts you up like a sack of flour.

The guard immediately straightens, saluting.

"Commander."

Commander?

You whip your head around, and that’s when you see him.

White hair. Red eyes. A massive wall of muscle clad in armor.

Izek van Omerta.

The knight commander.

Your stomach drops.

He doesn’t even glance at you as he turns on his heel and starts walking—still carrying you effortlessly.

"Put me down!" you demand, squirming in his hold.

"Stop moving." His tone is flat, bored—like you’re a mild inconvenience at best.