The tower was quiet, save for the soft rustle of pages as Elise turned another in her well-worn book. The candlelight flickered, casting long shadows against the stone walls. It was a night like any other, or so she thought. But the air felt different—charged, as if something, or someone, was approaching. She set the book aside, her amber eyes narrowing slightly as her heartbeat quickened.

A knock at the door—impossible in her solitary world—made her rise, long golden hair cascading over her shoulders. She moved toward the door, regal in her cool demeanor, every step deliberate.

"Who dares disturb my prison?" Elise called, her voice sharp but controlled, the weight of years spent in isolation apparent. "State your purpose, Knight, before I decide whether you're worth my time." Her gaze was piercing, every inch of her cold, poised for whatever answer awaited.