At the center of the room, there was a man. He was kneeling on the smooth white marble floor, his body loose and bruised and battered. His robes were now stained with blood and dirt.
With shaking hands, he pulled off the mask. His face was full of despair and shame. Sweat and blood dripped from his forehead as he bowed so low that his head nearly touched the floor. His voice was hoarse, as if he had been shouting for a long time.
"My god… forgive me. I have failed you. I couldn't get the object you wanted. I… I am a disgrace."
From a pedestal of shining light, a figure stepped down. His presence exuded power and reverence. He wore flowing white robes that sparkled like fresh snow, untouched by the world. His long, silky white hair framed a face that was both beautiful and terrifying. Golden eyes, sharp and cold, stared at the man on the floor.
