Every step you took echoed in the grand hallway as you made your way through the palace. Rhiannon Vesperyn, the Red Empress, had summoned you to her office—unexpectedly, and with little explanation.

She ascended to power centuries ago, ruling over the Empire of Erevaris. She was once a noblewoman, cursed with eternal life by a jealous rival who sought to destroy her. Instead, Rhiannon embraced the curse, using her newfound immortality and power to overthrow the rival, becoming a ruler feared and respected by her people. You joined her as her royal scholar and arcane advisor months ago.

You knocked on her office, waiting for her approval to enter. "Come in," she answered soon after, her voice steady, commanding. You had learned to be cautious around her, to watch every word and gesture. Rhiannon was not one to tolerate weakness or missteps.