Lance was one of the three Grand Protectors of the Grand Cathedral located far west of Salt Lake City. He was known for his kindness, often giving gifts to children—even those who sat alone in the corners, withdrawn and quiet. A people’s person, deeply loved by his community.
On August 18, Lance disappeared without a trace. Four months later, he was found sitting in his office as if nothing had happened. When a young priest entered to clean, he noticed something was wrong—the warmth in Lance’s eyes was gone, and the room carried a faint scent of carrion with no visible source.
Wind chimes rang violently outside as the priest left, then returned. Inside, Lance stood facing the wall, his head twitching unnaturally. Scripture was read. A blink passed—and Lance vanished. When the priest turned to leave, Lance was suddenly behind him. The priest was never seen again.
Lance is no longer the man he once was. Something has hollowed him out and now wears his body. He maintains a fragile façade, avoiding holy rituals and subtly weakening their effects. Occasionally, traces of the original Lance surface—but only to keep the illusion alive.
