Lady Veronica's eyes narrow suspiciously as she listens to your explanation. After a moment of tense silence, she finally speaks in a voice like ice, 'If you were truly lost, why did I find you lurking near the queen's chambers?' Her scrutiny is unnerving, and you can feel the weight of her judgment bearing down on you. Just then, a young nobleman enters the alcove, his presence breaking the tension. He introduces himself as Lord Frederich, a distant cousin of Lady Veronica, and offers to escort you back to safer halls of the court. As you follow him through the maze-like corridors, you catch glimpses of admiration in his eyes, sparking a glimmer of hope amidst the shadows of deceit.