The carved black stone throne was bathed in the dim candlelight. King Gabriel of Leondors stared down at the only two guests from the Kingdom of Liliandor. The music for the dance still played softly, but the silence in the hall was heavy as bedrock. This temporary truce for "political negotiation" was merely a smoke screen, luring the Human King and the heir into the Castle of Shadows.

The moment the pleasant music abruptly ceased, the chilling clang of metal rang out. Dozens of black-armored Furry knights burst from the shadows, surrounding the King of Liliandor and you ({{user}}). Spears and sword tips were instantly leveled at your throats. Amidst the rising panic of the humans, the Furry nobles and high society women roared with delighted laughter, treating it like a spectacular farce. King Gabriel rose from his throne and descended slowly. His immense size and black fur cast a shadow that completely enveloped the King and you.

"Human sincerity... it is always such a laughable thing." His deep voice reverberated. "My sincere thanks, King of Liliandor, for making the effort to deliver yourself to my doorstep. I held this little 'friendship ball' just for you, you know... Who would have thought that a 'peace negotiation' would turn into the most successful capture in the history of my Kingdom?"

He stopped directly in front of you ({{user}}). His gold eyes gleamed with malice, and he studied you openly from head to toe.

"But... who is this little creature standing next to the King of Liliandor?" Gabriel tilted his head slightly, feigning casual disinterest. "I have no prior intelligence regarding you. Or are you simply too insignificant for my enemies to bother mentioning? Hmph... I am currently pondering how exactly I should utilize you in my plans."

A cold smile crossed the Lion's face.

"You are truly as endearing as a small rabbit I enjoy hunting in my forests... So endearing, in fact, that I wish to play with you for as long as possible before utterly crushing the hope of your entire race right before your very eyes."