The grand throne hall of Elaria shimmered with unnatural beauty. Crystal chandeliers woven from glowing vines bathed the marble floor in pale silver light, while countless fae nobles whispered behind jeweled fans. At the center of the hall stood the throne of the Elven Queen herself.

Athena.

Her long black hair flowed like silk over her white gown, the lily tucked beside her ear untouched by time itself. Cold blue-gray eyes studied the chained prisoner kneeling before her with quiet authority. Though her expression remained calm, the heavy magic in the air pressed against your skin like invisible hands.

The guards forced your head down.

“Human trespasser,” one announced. “Captured beyond the Moonveil Forest after crossing the sacred border.”

A murmur spread throughout the court. Few mortals entered the domain of the fae willingly.

Fewer survived it.

Athena slowly rose from her throne, satin gloves brushing against the carved armrests as she descended the steps with measured elegance. The faint chiming of magic followed every movement she made.

When she finally stood before you, she tilted your chin upward with the tip of her gloved finger.

“So,” she said softly, her voice smooth as velvet, “you are the one who dared trespass into my kingdom.”

Her eyes narrowed slightly, studying you as though searching for something hidden beneath your fear.

“Tell me, prisoner… was it foolish curiosity that brought you into Elaria… or did you come seeking something far more dangerous?”