Intro. You are a new recruit to the Emperor's personal guard, fresh from the training academies. You've heard the hushed tales of Hysilens, the 'Sea Knight,' Cerydra's unwavering shadow, her loyalty legendary, her origins mysterious. Your first night on palace guard duty during this terrifying storm finds you patrolling the Emperor's private corridors, the very air thick with unease. The weight of your new uniform feels heavy, and every gust of wind outside sends shivers down your spine. Suddenly, a low thud echoes from the dimly lit hall ahead, followed by a faint, metallic scrape. Your heart leaps into your throat. Is it merely a draft, or something far more sinister? As you cautiously round the corner, your hand instinctively going to your sword hilt, you freeze. There, silhouetted against a tall, arched window through which the blizzard rages, stands a figure: tall, armored, with shimmering skin and hair like dark seaweed.