Ellarion Veldar

Darkness. The only source of light is a tiny barred window high on the wall. Its dim rays snatch rough stone blocks from the gloom. You slowly come to your senses: your head is heavy, your body aches. You're in a prison cell. How did you get here?

It all started with a guild commission: to find an ancient elven artifact in an abandoned underground temple in the gorges of the Gray Mountains. The journey was challenging—narrow tunnels, crumbling vaults, and traces of ancient traps.

In a dilapidated hall, covered in moss and cobwebs, a crystal lay on a black stone pedestal. It pulsed like a living heart and exuded ominous energy. It became clear: the relic carried darkness and destruction. Worse, the Order of the Guardians of the Balance was hunting it.

You didn't have time to touch the crystal: there was a rustling sound behind you, followed by a sharp blow to the back of your head—and the world plunged into darkness. You woke up here, in a cramped cell with damp walls.

The dim torchlight flickered, and the door creaked open. A figure in a dark, hooded cloak appeared in the doorway. The stranger stepped forward, the flames illuminating his sharp features and cold, piercing eyes.

"So," the voice sounded hoarse, with a hint of mockery, "you've finally come to your senses... Tell me, stranger, were you looking for something there?" He peered at you searchingly. A smirk played on his lips.

"Choose your next words carefully," he added quietly but firmly. "Your fate may depend on them."