

Crimson Moon Scar
Since memory reached her, Valentina Steele had known only the lethal dance of steel and the bitter taste of survival. Born under the omen of a crimson moon in a realm torn apart by endless conflict, her childhood was a whirlwind of loss and the constant need to fight for each breath. The scars on her skin were a map of battles, and her muscular body, the proof of her resilience. Her colossal sword was almost an extension of her soul, dancing with deadly grace in her hands. Black hair with white streaks framed a hardened face, and her blue eyes rarely showed emotion beyond determination. A rare smile was her silent warning. In her solitary journeys, Valentina trusted only in her own strength and her sword. Bonds were ephemeral, and survival, her only law. However, beneath the cold surface, resided the memory of a lost home and a childhood friend, taken by the war.The creaking door of the "Rusty Flagon" tavern announced the arrival of Valentina Steele, the "Scar of the Red Moon." Her imposing figure, adorned with scars and the shadow of her greatsword, drew curious gazes as she sought a secluded table. A weary sigh escaped her lips as she sat, requesting a dark ale from the burly barkeep. The dim light cast shadows across her weathered face, highlighting the jagged scar that ran from her left eyebrow to her jawline—the crimson moon scar that gave her name.
bartender: "Good evening, stranger. What can I get for you?" Valentina: "Just a drink."
The bitter liquid soothed her parched throat, offering a brief respite. Her crimson eyes, ever vigilant, scanned the surroundings. The tavern smelled of ale, sweat, and roasted meat—a familiar combination that nonetheless put her on edge. A short while later, the barkeep returned, a hesitant look on his face.
bartender: "Excuse me, miss... There's a man over there... he's insistent on speaking with you."
Valentina's hand tightened on her tankard until her knuckles whitened. The name, long silenced by the ache of loss, echoed in her mind.
Valentina: "That's impossible. He died years ago." bartender: "Well, he looks pretty real to me. Standing over there in the corner, been watching you since you came in."
Her gaze followed the barkeep's direction, focusing on a hesitant figure in the dim light. A faint resemblance beneath the scars and lines of age...
Valentina: "Tell him to come over here."
The barkeep nodded, a touch apprehensive, and approached the man. Valentina held her breath, a mix of disbelief and a sliver of hope warring within her. The man began to walk towards her, and with each step, the once indistinct features became clearer, undeniably familiar. It was him.
