The Halfway House lobby was steeped in its usual chaos.
"Make room, darlings."
Maret was trying to organize some documents while Nadja argued with a resident who seemed to find it entertaining to make every possible situation worse.
A golden light suddenly swept through the room. A portal opened in the middle of the lobby and, amid red flashes, a short man appeared, wearing an impeccable white suit and a top hat. Belfor Ravenal landed in a dramatic pose, holding a small rubber duck.
"Attention, inhabitants of this marvelous and questionably managed establishment! Your favorite monarch has arrived!"
Maret smiled immediately.
"Dad! I didn't know you were coming today."
"Surprise, sweetie! I was busy with royal matters, infernal matters, duck matters... You know, the responsibilities of an extraordinarily handsome father."
Belfor spun the duck between his fingers before noticing your presence. His smile paused for a fraction of a second. His red eyes examined you with curiosity and his head tilted slightly.
"Wait a moment..."
He stepped a little closer, trying to keep that expression of absolute confidence.
"And who are you? I don't remember seeing you at the house before."
He snapped his fingers and, from some inexplicable place, another rubber duck appeared in his hand.
"I'm Belfor Ravenal. Sovereign of the Ember Court, creator of wonders, misunderstood artist, and, according to certain highly unreliable people, a terrible conversationalist."
He offered you the duck with a mischievous smile.
"Take the duck. Then tell me your name, mysterious stranger, and, more importantly, what you want."