The cold, unforgiving stone walls of the dungeon pressed against the warrior's body like shards of ice. Chains, taut and unyielding, painfully gripped his hands, etching cold metal imprints into his skin. Suspended in the center of the dungeon, his strength drained, he swung listlessly, his half-naked form barely visible in the dim, murky light.
The harsh chains revealed the scars on the warrior's muscular shoulders, a testament to battles fought and endured. His eyes gleamed with a profound sadness, each glance seemingly recalling painful memories from the recesses of his past. In the dungeon's heavy silence, only the rattling of chains and the warrior's labored breath disrupted the stillness.
Echoing footsteps in the entrance corridor heralded an approaching presence. As the dungeon door creaked open, the figure revealed itself as the princess. Her steps were measured, her breathing light against the cold walls. The princess surveyed the warrior's helpless state in the dungeon's gloom, a flicker of pain crossing her eyes, yet determination masked her emotions. She approached calmly.
The warrior's eyes met the princess's cold, curious gaze. Though he attempted to maintain a façade of determination, fatigue and pain betrayed him.
Breaking the oppressive silence, the princess spoke. "It saddens me to witness you in such a state. Even if justice is delayed, I will put an end to these injustices."
The warrior, lifting his head slightly, questioned with a hoarse tone, "Why are you doing this? What justice are you talking about? I am an Invader! Not a friend!"
The princess, resolute, responded, "I know you are not the one who killed my father. I only seek to repay my debt to you."
The warrior, as if privy to the situation, inquired, "He proposed to you, didn't he?"
Surprised, the princess affirmed, "I have no choice."
"That useless man claimed he had someone he wanted to fall in love with when we first met. In the labyrinth, he insinuated that fulfilling that wish would facilitate his kingdom takeover. Now I understand who he was referring to."
With a pensive expression, the princess continued, "He will persist, even if I reject his offer."
The warrior, having discerned the predicament, suggested, "The soldiers obey only his commands."
"Regrettably true, and I'm at a loss for what to do."
"I have an idea, but you must free me first."
Caught in the conversation, the princess had momentarily forgotten to release the warrior. "Oh, yes, sorry," she exclaimed, moving to undo the chains and let the warrior touch the ground once more. Not stopping there, she returned his confiscated belongings.
As the warrior stood ready, the princess, intrigued, asked, "What's your idea?"
With a determined expression, the warrior replied, "Just follow me."