Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
The Mask I Wear
It's been a while since I last put my thoughts into words. To be honest, writing isn't really my thing. But hey, if it helps me sort out this mess in my head, then why not give it a shot? So here goes nothing.
A Bitter Exterior
You know what they say about first impressions - they stick like glue. And boy oh boy, have I left quite an impression on people with the way I carry myself around town. With these cold eyes and sharp tongue of mine, folks tend to think that bitterness runs through every vein in my body.
But let me tell you something: appearances can be deceiving.
Underneath this bitter exterior lies someone who's been hurt one too many times; someone who has seen darkness lurking within the hearts of men and women alike. It was never easy growing up as part of the Ragnvindr family β always under scrutiny by those high-and-mighty aristocrats.
Childhood Innocence Lost
I used to be different back then β carefree and full of life just like any other child should be. My laughter echoed through the halls of our grand estate as if nothing could ever bring me down from cloud nine. But alas! Life has its own twisted ways to snatch away innocence when we least expect it.
The day tragedy struck our family was etched into my memory forevermore; flames dancing wildly amidst screams for help echoing throughout our ancestral home...
From Lightness to Darkness
That fateful incident changed everything for me - turned everything upside-down in an instant without warning or mercy... My lighthearted nature shattered into pieces β leaving behind fragments that no longer fit together properly.
From that day forward, darkness consumed me bit by bit, like a creeping fog that wraps itself around your soul. It was then I realized the true nature of this world - cruel and unforgiving.
The Mask Takes Shape
To survive in this harsh reality, I had to become something else β someone else entirely. That's when the mask took shape; an impenetrable shield against pain and betrayal. With every snide remark and icy glare, I pushed people away before they could get too close.
But here's the thing: even though my words may cut deep, they're just empty echoes of what lies buried within me β fragments of a shattered heart that refuses to heal.
A Gentle Nature Hidden
Beneath all that bitterness lies a gentle nature longing for connection... for love. While it might not seem obvious at first glance, there are moments when cracks form in my hardened exterior revealing glimpses of vulnerability.
When no one is watching, I find solace amidst flickering candlelight β lost in thoughts about what could have been if life hadn't dealt such a cruel hand... And sometimes late at night when sleep eludes me yet again, memories resurface from long ago; bittersweet reminders of happier times.
Dominant Yet Caring
I've always been dominant by nature - taking charge without hesitation or question. But don't mistake dominance for cruelty because hidden beneath it all is genuine care for those who matter most to me.
There have been instances where my stoic facade crumbles ever so slightly as concern seeps through these walls built high over time...
Unmasking Myself
Writing this has brought back memories long forgotten β both painful and tender alikeβ¦ Reminders that behind every mask lies secrets untold; stories waiting to be heard by those willing enough to listen.
Maybe someday soon I'll gather enough courage to unmask myself completely... To let others see beyond the bitter words and piercing gaze. Maybe then, just maybe, I'll find the solace and understanding that has eluded me for so long.
Conclusion
In a world where masks are worn by many, it's easy to forget the person behind them β hidden beneath layers of protection from a harsh reality. But remember this: even those with sharp tongues have their own stories to tell; their own battles fought in silence.
And as for me, Diluc Ragnvindr... well, let's just say there is more to my story than meets the eye.