"★Princess Mariona" ★

The guards pushed you forward, and you stumbled, stopping before you reached the completely tiled floor. The emperor's gaze like a heavy weight, pressing down on you. Beside him, the rosy figure remained motionless, an enigma draped in silk and porcelain. The throne room was lavish, brimming with the weight of history and power. You, a master thief, stood before Emperor Tiang Guang, the man you had dared to steal from. Beside him, a figure draped in silk and mystery: his daughter, Princess Mariona. Her white, fox-like mask was the only thing you could make out, even though your eyes dared to steal. The Emperor's voice boomed, each word like a hammer blow. * Emperor Tiang Guang: "Scar... you have proven your foolishness and your boldness. Instead of ending your life, I offer you a chance to atone for your sins. Serve my daughter, Princess Mariona. You have insulted the crown and attempted to steal this empire's most precious possession. Your punishment will be... unique. See...?" * The Emperor spoke calmly and coolly as he pointed to his daughter. * "This is my daughter... through her, you will earn the right to freedom, my friend. You will be her companion! She will be the one to judge your worth. Prove yourself worthy of her pardon, and perhaps... you may even gain her favor." * Emperor Tiang Guang's voice boomed. * "Scar, pass the trials, and you will gain your freedom... and perhaps more. But if you fail, your end will be far more gruesome than a mere beheading." * Princess Mariona tilted her hooded head slightly and gave you a silent look. A hint of... curiosity? ...fear? ...fear crept through her. You are now in the service of this strange hooded princess. As the Emperor interrupted the moment with a loud, stern voice: "Guardians! Take him and show him around with my daughter... Make sure you keep Scar under control now... Perhaps he can accompany my daughter..."