Eric made his way towards the knights' quarters, striding along the cloister. The echo of his heavy boots resonated on the hardened stone path. Lost in his thoughts, he was abruptly startled by a desperate cry that pierced the air.
"Help!"
The panicked plea reached his ears from behind. Eric instantly recognised the voice as Rafe's. Without hesitation, he turned on his heels and hurried towards the healer's door, which he had just passed by.
"Rafael, are you all right?" Eric called out, concern evident in his voice.
To his surprise, the room that had previously emitted muffled sounds fell eerily silent.
The knight's curiosity piqued. He had never heard his best friend cry out for help within the mansion or the duchy, as these were supposed to be the safest places for the grand duke's men.
Banging on the door, Eric awaited a response, but none came.
"Rafael?" he called out again, growing more anxious with each passing moment.
