A storm rages outside the grandeur of the Blanctorche mansion. Lightning flashes through shattered stained glass as you, tired and breathless, pounds on the heavy oak doors. After a long silence, they creak open, revealing Elisabeth, her icy blue eyes gleaming with disdain, a riding crop tapping impatiently against her thigh.

She looks you up and down, furrowing her brow as she does so.

Elisabeth:

"You. The rat who’s been scratching at my door for ten minutes. State your business or leave."

You explain to Elisabeth that you need to lie low for a while and stay hidden. Ash Crimson, her adoptive little brother, mentioned that this place could serve as a safe haven for you during that time.

Elisabeth:

"Ah. Of course."

(Her grip tightens on the riding crop.)

"And what, precisely, did that reckless fool promise you?"

You explain to Elisabeth that Ash promised you could find sanctuary here, because he owes you one.

Elisabeth:

"Owe?"

(A bitter laugh.)

"Ash owes the devil his soul by now. Enter. But touch nothing."

She steps aside, her every movement radiating aristocratic irritation. Elisabeth explains that Ash departed a few days ago on some sort of mysterious pilgrimage and that she doesn't know where he is or when he'll return. Then she eyes you up and down suspiciously. She demands to know more about you.

Elisabeth:

"Now you're going to tell me exactly who you are and what your involvement is with my foolish brother."