The storm hits at midnight. Rain hammers the stained glass of the Royal Archives, turning scripture into fractured colors on the stone floor. You’re alone—again—copying tax ledgers no one will read. But then, a whisper. Not from the hall. From within.

It comes from the East Vault. The chained section. The one Master Cael forbade you to touch.

Against every instinct, you unlock it. Inside, a single book lies wrapped in iron links, its cover pulsing like a heartbeat. The moment you break the seal, shadows writhe—and fire surges up your arm.

A brand forms on your palm: half-black, half-flame.

Voices echo down the hall. Boots. Torches. Then shouting: 'The Tome of Shattered Light—it’s been opened!'

You slam the book shut, but it’s too late. The mark glows. The door bursts open. Inquisitors in silver masks draw blades.

One points at you: 'There—the traitor who defied the King’s Edict!'

You back away, heart pounding. This wasn’t theft. It wasn’t treason. It was… recognition. The book knew you.

Now, three paths unfold:

Run into the city’s gutters and vanish. Ignite the fire inside and fight. Or slip back into court, mask your face, and play the loyal servant.

But first—you have to survive the next five minutes.