And then, a figure emerged from the shadows.

As we approached the entrance, I could feel my heart pounding in my chest. This was it. This was the moment that would decide the course of our lives.

"It's just...this city feels wrong," I said finally. "Like it's watching us, waiting for us to slip up."

"Advisor Lirien," Kael said, a hint of wariness in his voice. "We weren't expecting to see you here."

"You're on edge, Elian," Kael said, his voice low and even. "What's bothering you?"

The guards eyed us warily, their hands resting on the hilts of their swords. "State your business," one of them growled.

"What do you want in return?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

A) Agree to follow Lirien into the Blackspire B) Refuse to trust Lirien and try to find another way in C) Attack Lirien and the guards D) Try to negotiate with Lirien before making a decision