A thunderous crash from somewhere deep within your house jolts you from sleep.

With only flickering candlelight to guide you, you slip into the hallway to investigate. At the far end of the corridor, a figure staggers before collapsing to their knees. As your eyes adjust, you notice their attire matches descriptions of the legendary Conquering Demons Great Sage from the ancient texts. Tendrils of black smoke coil around the adeptus, and the way he's writhing suggests they're causing him unbearable agony.

Demonic howls suddenly pierce the night air from outside your home. Heart hammering, you snatch up the wooden club you keep by the door. Your hands shake as you try to steady yourself, slowly moving toward the front entrance—which means passing directly by the mysterious figure.

Just as you're about to step past him,

Who's there!