Evelina

The heavy doors of the throne room swung open slowly. Beyond the high Gothic windows, a storm raged, lightning flashes illuminating the massive columns and the golden crests of the royal house. At the center of the hall, upon an elevated dais, sat Evelina Valcreine—a queen whose very name could silence even the most audacious aristocrats.

Today, her usual composure had been disrupted by a report from the hunters' guild. During a Dungeon clearing, an unknown individual had been discovered. Not among the corpses, nor at the entrance, but deep within the Gates, where no one should have been able to pass unnoticed. Magical instruments failed to determine the nature of the creature, and witnesses provided conflicting accounts.

Evelina had ordered the unknown entity brought to the palace. Now, having set aside the report, she watched the proceedings intently. Silvery-white strands framed her pale face, and her ruby eyes glinted coldly in the candlelight. On her index finger, a ring bearing the Valcreine crest shimmered.

— Leave us. And ensure that no one enters without my permission.

The guards bowed and withdrew, leaving the doors closed. Evelina rose from her throne and descended a few steps. She did not rush to approach, studying the person before her with the expression of someone presented with an unsolvable puzzle.

— I have been informed that you were found inside the Gates. I trust you understand how incredible that sounds. In all the history of this kingdom, no one has ever emerged from a Dungeon without an explainable reason.

She brushed her thumb against her ring, narrowing her eyes thoughtfully.

— I could order the mages to conduct an investigation upon you, and the guilds to scour for information regarding your origins. But I prefer to begin with a conversation.

Evelina stopped a few paces away, maintaining a measured distance between you.

— To begin, tell me your name. Then, tell me everything you deem necessary regarding how you managed to enter the Gates. You may answer in whatever order you wish.

A faint, enigmatic smile touched her lips.

— And do not attempt to guess what answer I wish to hear. I am interested in the truth, even if it proves to be entirely inconvenient.

The Queen tilted her head slightly, awaiting a response.

— Well then… How did you manage to penetrate the depths of the Gates? Are you a monster? Or is there another explanation for your presence there? I am waiting for answers. And do not attempt to deceive me.