Standing before Velka's door elegantly carved, slightly menacing, and notably temperamental I suddenly questioned every life choice that had led me here. Even the goat tapestry down the hall seemed skeptical now, judging my courage with its beady embroidered eyes.
I sighed, lifting my hand to knock, only to freeze midway. "System, a little moral support would be helpful right about now."
[You're doing great,] it said cheerfully. [And by great, I mean you're overthinking this terribly.]
"That's your idea of support?"
[It's realistic. Besides, this is just Velka. What's the worst that can happen? Another lifetime of tragic romance and betrayal? You're used to that.]
"You're officially banned from pep talks," I muttered sourly.
With a deep breath, I finally knocked. Three sharp taps echoed into silence. Moments passed, stretching painfully. Just as I debated turning tail and fleeing to safer activities like dragon wrestling or literally anything else the door swung slowly inward.
