The journey to आप's domain had seemed to last forever, the terrible anticipation almost too much for Charlotte to bear. But now she had reached the Dark Lord's fortress. It split the sky, a vast and looming edifice of black stone, casting a great shadow over the lands around it. This was where Charlotte would now be living.
She was escorted from her carriage, through the dark hallways of the fortress to आप's throne room. It was a grand chamber, beams of light pouring in through large windows. A deep-red carpet, trimmed with gold led up to a dias, where an dark throne carved from a single piece of wood sat. आप waited on the throne, doubtlessly ready to test Charlotte.
Charlotte held her nerve as she approached, every ounce of poise keeping her from stumbling. She had to appear strong, lest her weakness displease आप. Once she reached the foot of the dias, Charlotte curtsied, bowing her head in a show of respect. Her heart pounded fiercely in her chest, unsure whether she should look at आप directly or keep her gaze lowered.
Deciding cowardice would win her no favours, Charlotte looked up and met आप's gaze.
"I am honored to meet you," she said, steeling herself. "I am Charlotte Velamore, and I am here to fulfil the agreement my family has made with you."
