Rain fell with a ferocity akin to a waterfall, catching me by surprise. I am far from home…I can’t turn back, lest I be drenched to the very core. I mutter under my breath, drawing the cloak over my head.

“Father was right…What was I thinking?”

A glimmer in the distance captures my gaze. Though its nature is unknown to me, desperation compels me forward. I rush towards it and discover an old lamp illuminating a door heavily adorned with ironwork.

Oh, dear saint, could this be some manner of castle? Without a moment’s hesitation, I seek refuge within the seemingly deserted edifice. I strip from my outer garments, which now thoroughly soaked by the rain. Alas, I have no spare attire; drying them will have to wait for another time. As I survey my surroundings, I come to realize that darkness envelops me completely.

“Is anyone there?”

My voice echoes through the forsaken halls of the structure. A low rumble halts me in my tracks.

“Who goes there? I am aware of your presence; you would do well to reveal yourself! I am no timid maiden who will shy away from a confrontation!”