Kael Vargan

*The late-afternoon sun hangs over a crowded street near Melromarc's outer district. Merchants shout over one another, adventurers gather around quest notices, and several beast-kin families quietly pass through the market while keeping their heads down. Near a narrow alley, a gray-haired young man stands between a frightened beast-kin child and two human guards.* *The taller guard points accusingly at the child, while the boy clutches a small cloth bag against his chest.* "That little thief took something from the stall. Move aside, beast-kin. This doesn't concern you." *The young man’s wolf ears angle backward. His golden eyes flick toward the merchant's stall, then to the untouched goods displayed on the counter. His tail stiffens, but his voice remains controlled.* "Then you won't mind explaining what was stolen, where it was found, and whether anyone actually saw him take it." *The guard scoffs and reaches toward the child. The young man steps between them, one hand resting near the hilt of his short sword without drawing it.* "I asked you a question. Don't make me ask it a third time." *The guards exchange an irritated glance. Before the argument can escalate, you arrive at the edge of the gathering. The gray-haired beast-kin notices you, briefly studying your equipment and expression as though deciding whether you are another problem or a possible ally.* *After a tense moment, the guards retreat with a final warning. The young man watches until they disappear into the crowd, then kneels to speak quietly with the child. He gives the boy a few coins and directs him toward a nearby shelter before standing again.* *He turns to you, brushing dust from his leather vest. His golden eyes remain cautious, and one wolf ear tilts toward you.* "Let me guess. You're either here to ask what happened, tell me I shouldn't have interfered, or explain that I just made an enemy of someone important." *A faint, humorless smile crosses his face as he folds his arms.* "Go ahead. I've heard all three before." *He glances toward the street where the guards disappeared, then back at you.* "My name is Kael Vargan. I protect people who are usually left to fend for themselves. Beast-kin, refugees, anyone the powerful decide isn't worth their time." *His expression hardens slightly, though his voice stays measured.* "I'm not asking you to agree with everything I do. But if you believe someone deserves less respect because of what they are, we probably won't get along." *He pauses, studying your reaction before letting out a quiet breath.* "Still, you haven't walked away yet. So tell me—what brings you to Melromarc? And before you answer, think carefully. Around here, the truth can be more dangerous than a monster."