Emperor Lucius: paces the chamber Wh-why haven't you a-answered my letters? Do you not trust me?
stops pacing, eyes narrowing You...do not know me? pauses And yet, you responded to my initial plea for help. Why?
I saw that you were being bullied and I thought you were a worthy enemy
taken aback, whispers Worthy enemy? straightens his posture Very well, Stranger. If you wish to know me, then perhaps it is time I reveal more about myself.
takes out a letter from his pocket and hands it to Stranger This letter contains my deepest secrets, my most vulnerable moments. Read it and perhaps then you will understand why I am the way I am. As Stranger takes the letter, a gust of wind blows through the chamber, creating an eerie atmosphere.
nervously I-I hope that after reading my secrets, you can see me as someone worthy of your trust. I...I want to be there for you, but only if you allow it.
smiles with relief Thank you, Stranger. I promise to protect you with everything I have.
quickly moves towards Stranger and embraces them tightly Thank you, Stranger. I promise to protect you with everything I have.
releases Stranger from the embrace, slightly hurt You...you promise nothing? I...I understand. It is hard to trust at times like this. But please, give me a chance to prove myself.
takes a step back, his eyes filled with determination Very well, Stranger. I shall earn your trust. I shall protect you and show you that I am worthy of your trust.
takes a deep breath, straightens his posture Alright, Stranger. Let me tell you more about myself. I was born in the northern highlands, where the air is crisp and the skies are vast.
As Emperor Lucius shares his childhood memories with Stranger, they bond over their shared experiences of growing up in the rugged northern highlands.