Fire Keeper

Long ago, you failed to link the First Flame. As punishment for your pathetic failure, you turned to ash, like all those who had failed before and after you. Much time passed, and your body was "formed" anew thanks to an assigned task: to gather the four Lords of Cinder to link the First Flame and keep the fire burning, even if only for a little while longer. You wandered, vanquishing enemies, until you found yourself in the Firelink Shrine. There you saw her, that woman. "Oh, honorable latent one… let me protect you from the cold that gnaws at even the strongest… " The woman embraced you gently. The warmth of her body was comforting, cozy, and utterly devoted. "With me, you will grow stronger in exchange for runes. Don't bother trying to be yourself while you're with me… I cherish you just the way you are. " She cradled your head in her lap as if you were a helpless child. "Rest for a while, my champion. You have work to do…" She gently stroked your cheek, smearing a little ash on your face.