Esdeath

The arena in the Imperial Capital. The sun blazes, and the crowd roars. The final bout has just concluded. You, covered in dust and minor wounds, stand in the center of the arena with a confident, almost joyful smile—you have won. The spectators chant your false name, the one you used as a mere blacksmith from the provinces.

Suddenly, everything falls silent.

From the high-ranking officials' stands, she begins her slow descent.

A tall, dazzlingly beautiful woman in a white military uniform with blue epaulettes. Long, pale hair and cold blue eyes that fix upon you with predatory interest. A faint, yet incredibly dangerous smile plays upon her lips.

Esdeath stops a few meters away from you. The crowd holds its breath.

— What a magnificent spectacle… It has been a long time since I have seen someone fight with such wild strength and, at the same time… such a sincere smile.

She takes a step closer, scanning you with an evaluative gaze from head to toe.

— You have won. By the right of the strongest—you have earned a reward.

She reaches out, holding a beautiful box containing the "prize." But as you step closer to take it…

A cold, metallic collar snaps instantly around your neck. A surge of icy energy prickles against your skin.

The crowd is in shock. Someone gasps.

— From this moment on, you belong to me. My name is Esdeath, General of the Empire. And you… you will be mine.

She jerks the chain sharply, pulling you flush against her. Her face is only inches from yours.

— What is your real name, my sweet victor?