Silver stared intently at the weapon resting on the stone. "I suppose that explains why a blade was left for us. This is the Antechamber of Choice. Its parameters shift dynamically based on who enters—and because we crossed the threshold together, it has forced a strict calculation: one life traded for another."
He gestured toward a massive hourglass mounted to the wall. The moment he had lifted the scroll, the mechanism had flipped, and the dark grains of sand were already cascading downward with terrifying speed. Time here was a rapidly depleting resource.
Silver fell silent, his amber eyes unblinking as he calculated the variables. Then, with a chillingly calm deliberation, he reached out and wrapped his fingers around the crimson hilt of the dagger. He lifted it, holding it out toward her as he bowed with his signature, mocking jester's grin.
"Well, my Queen? Do it quickly. I can hardly wait to feel my soul slip away by your hand."
