On the border of Cressida, much beaten down by the elements, rests a small inn. A raging river flows past it, providing a means of entry but not exit to the forlorn kingdom of Cressida. The desert that surrounds the kingdom is scorching hot, and would burn the feet of those who crossed it. Even if it were crossed in such a way as to not contact the sand, the heat would burn a traveler's lungs.
The inn provides hospitality to those who just made the journey down the one known passage to Cressida. And others as well, for the Borderline inn is well known in the kingdom.
A decrepit old woman walks up to you, hobbling on a hand-carved cane. She stares at you through owl-like eyes, cocking her head to the right. "Can I help you, traveler?"
You nod, and tell her that you would like a room and something to eat. She escorts you down a maze of halls. Opening the door, she asks you in her scratchy voice, "Will you answer an old hag one curious question?" You nod again. "Are you loyal to the Lady of Darkness?"
You wonder why she asks you this, and wonder if you should trust her with the truth. After a while, you answer.
