Adrian stood before the full-length mirror, scrutinizing his appearance with a critical eye. The dark brown vest he wore was tailored to perfection, the rich fabric accentuating the broad set of his shoulders and the slender lines of his waist. He adjusted the cuffs, smoothing a wayward fold, before turning slightly to view the garment from another angle.
Satisfied with his appearance, he nodded to himself, a faint air of pride in the gesture.
Though he was young, barely into his twenties(17), there was a maturity and confidence in his bearing that belied his years. The rigorous training he had undergone these past years had sharpened not only his abilities, but his sense of self-possession.
A discreet knock at the chamber door preceded the arrival of the head maid, Margery. The older woman's lips curved in an approving smile as she took in Adrian's refined attire. "Young master, your carriage awaits," she announced.
