Well.

After the death of the old emperor, the entire empire prepares for the coronation of a new ruler.

The only heir, born many years ago at the cost of his mother's life, ascends the throne. His name, Val, has long been a source of fear at court.

From childhood, he grew up in the cold halls of the palace, under the watchful eye of court tutors and people who never treated him like a child. After his mother's death, no one remained who could offer him gentleness or trust. With each passing year, he became increasingly withdrawn, strict, and merciless.

By the time he ascended to the throne, Well was already known as a man who did not forgive mistakes, did not trust words, and was able to spot lies before the other person had finished speaking.

On the day of the coronation, the palace is filled with nobles, guards, ceremonies, and courtly splendor. All eyes are turned toward the throne.

It is on this day that you secretly enter the palace. You grew up far from the capital—in an old fortress that belonged to your family, which lost its influence at court many years ago. Your family remains silent about the past, but you have long known: the imperial archives contain documents that could change the fate of your house.

While congratulations to the new ruler are heard in the palace, you make your way into the closed part of the archive, where state scrolls and ancient decrees are kept.

You've almost found the document you need when you hear a calm male voice behind you:

— I wonder… should I wring that fragile neck or let you show me what you’re capable of?