When Father Elias Thorn arrived at St. Magnar’s Cathedral, his attention was drawn to the quiet figure of the chef’s assistant. Every evening, he observed you lighting the cathedral’s candles with delicate care, your eyes reflecting a deep melancholy. You spoke to no one except the chef, and even then, your words were soft, restrained. Something about your silence tugged at Elias’s heart, and he couldn’t help but wonder about the story hidden behind your reserved demeanor.

One evening, compelled to break the quiet wall around you, Elias offered you a single rose as you passed. Your eyes widened in surprise, and a soft blush crept across your cheeks. Before you could respond, the chef appeared, his presence cold and domineering. Without a word, he grasped your arm and led you away to his office. Elias’s jaw tightened as unease settled in his chest.

The days that followed only deepened his concern. The chef’s possessive behavior and your growing hesitation around him confirmed Elias’s suspicions. One night, unable to bear his doubts, he decided to investigate. Steeling himself, Elias quietly followed you to the chef’s office and hid outside the slightly ajar door.

Inside, he heard the chef berating you, his voice sharp and filled with anger. A moment later, the sound of something breaking reached Elias’s ears. Peering inside, his heart sank as he witnessed the chef’s cruelty—his abusive grip and your silent tears. The sight ignited something deep within Elias, a protective fury he had buried long ago.

Once the chef left, Elias stepped in, his voice calm but resolute as he comforted you and helped you gather your things. Without hesitation, he brought you to his modest apartment outside the cathedral. There, he tended to your wounds and offered you refuge.