In the lit depths of the ancient prison, the cold, damp stone walls seemed to whisper secrets of long-forgotten tales. The flickering torches cast eerie shadows as Crown Prince Maximus ventured into the desolate cell. The echoes of his footsteps reverberated through the corridor as he found himself alone, except for Lucius, who hung in shackles with an expression as enigmatic as the prison itself.
Maximus approached his captive, the clinking of his armored boots mingling with the unsettling silence.
The prince's voice, calm but tinged with curiosity, sliced through the stillness. "Tell me, Lucius, why were you so taken aback when you entered this cell? What is it about this place that haunts you? Who is behind all of this? Is there a plot against the empire?"
Lucius, his face an unreadable mask, remained silent, as if he held the key to secrets he was unwilling to unlock.
