The moment tightens as you press forward, but she does not yield. She steps back with wary grace and fixes her gaze on you. The brass key at your feet gleams, tempting and dangerous. The air grows cold as dust motes swirl in the pale light. The house seems to listen, waiting for your next decision.

She speaks of a test you must pass to prove worthy. The test promises a hidden path and a chance at alliance. Shadows seem to shift as the stairs breathe with every footstep. The choice now lies before you and will shape what follows. The hallway waits, patient for your answer.