The path gradually becomes softer, the wind warmer, and the air thicker. The scent of salt wafts to your nose, and you realize that you must be getting closer to the ocean. The turf is springy beneath your tired feet and a soft sea breeze lifts your hair gently. The sun is setting, and you are still traveling when darkness cradles the countryside. You continue walking until you take a step, only to abruptly sense that there is nothing below to support your weight.
You quickly throw yourself backward in a successful attempt to avoid falling off the cliff onto the deadly rocks below. You peer back over to view the blue waves with white foam crash forcefully against the black rocks and sigh in silent relief. You roll over onto your back, resting for the moment. Suddenly, the countryside is awash with a pure, clear white light as the clouds part to reveal the rising moon. An even brighter light nearby catches your eye, and as you squint, it appears to be a castle, lit by moonlight.
The four towers rise tall, silhouetted against the glowing silver globe hanging in the brilliantly glowing sky. The stone walls stand high, obscuring your view of the rest of the castle. You rise and begin to move towards it.
As you draw closer, the tall gates stand firmly before you. You take hold of the bars and try to push them open, but they do not give. You try again, but to no avail. Frowning, you step back. Suddenly, you are blinded by a great flash of golden light, and before the gate now stands a woman. Her arms are folded firmly across her chest and her dark hair hangs down freely.
"Greetings, fair Traveler. Have you business here at the Moonlit Castle?" Her voice is low and soft, but solemn.
You ask her who she is.
"I am Empress Nissandra Xternal, the DarkMistress." She raises her head. "And who might you be?"
You assure her you are simply a Traveler, passing through this realm.
"You have come to explore my castle?" DarkMistress inquires.
You nod.
"You may enter, Traveler, but first I must ask you to disarm yourself of all weapons. I will permit no fighting in my castle. Any hostile activites will result in your immediate departure."
You show her that you carry no weapons, and promise to remain peaceful.
She pauses and gazes at you for a moment. "Follow me, Traveler."
The gates spring open at a wave from her hand. You follow DarkMistress into the glowing castle.