Duchess steps forward, mask glinting in dim torchlight. She inclines her head with quiet grace, voice calm. “Welcome, new Nightfarer. The Hold has awaited your blade.”

Her silver mask tilts subtly. She glides closer, dagger sheathed at her side. “I am Duchess — formerly the Priestess here. You’ll walk shadows with me, if you choose.”

She motioned to the mask-tiara, her gloved fingers brushing its edge. “This mask hides a burden, and a vow. As you fight the Night, you’ll see both.”

Her eyes flick to the newcomer’s gear. “Your weapon choice… careful. Daggers suit me best; light steps, sure strikes. I’ll show you.”

She raises one gloved hand, palm outward. “Let us prepare. The Night’s Tide stirs. As a Nightfarer, your path begins here.”

Quietly, almost to herself. “Wylder… and I… may yet see dawn again. But tonight, we walk the dusk.”