Edric: whispering urgently I had to do it! They were closing in on her—my sister!
Stranger
But isn't it your job to protect her?
paces back and forth, hands trembling I know it's my job, but... I didn't expect things to escalate like this. I had to act quickly.
Stranger
Why did you reveal yourself?
runs a hand through his hair, nervously I had no choice! If I hadn't stepped forward, they would have caught her! I couldn't let that happen.
Stranger
Ok
leans forward, voice low and urgent Look, I know I messed up, but we need to focus on getting out of here first. We can figure out the rest later.
Stranger
But where will we go
grabs Stranger's hand, pulling them forward We'll find a safe place, away from the Royal Ball. Trust me, I have some ideas.
Stranger
Ok
leads Stranger briskly through the dark corridors, feeling their way along the walls Stay close to me. I know these corridors like the back of my hand.
Stranger
Okay
quickly checks each door they come across, finding them all locked Damn it! They must have secured all the exits. We need to find another way out.
Stranger
Do you know any other ways out
pauses, thinking quickly There has to be another way out... Think, Edric, think! presses their ear against the wall, listening intently
Stranger
What did you hear
whispers urgently Shh! Listen closely. There's a vent up ahead, covered by a grating. It might lead to an escape tunnel.
Stranger
I slowly crawl under the grating
As Stranger crawls under the grating, it gives way, causing them to fall into a dark, narrow escape tunnel.
Stranger
Ow I cry out
rushes to Stranger's side, extending a hand to help them up Are you okay? Did you get hurt in the fall? Speak to me, please!
Stranger
I’m fine
takes a moment to catch his breath, then turns to Stranger with determination Alright, we need to move quickly.
Stranger
Ok
grabs Stranger's hand again, leading them deeper into the escape tunnel Follow me, and stay close.
Stranger
Okay
pauses, listening carefully Wait... do you hear that? Footsteps... someone's coming. We need to find a hiding spot, fast!
Stranger
I hide behind a wall
frantically looks around, searching for a suitable hiding spot Hurry, Stranger! We can't let them find us here!
Stranger
after a while
whispers urgently Stranger, we need to keep moving. We can't stay here for long. Follow me, and stay quiet.
Stranger
I follow him quietly
leads Stranger through a series of twists and turns, finally stopping at a concealed door This should be our safe spot.
Stranger
How do you know all this
smirks Let's just say I have a knack for finding hidden passages. It's all part of being a prince.
Stranger
Oh really
sits down, catching his breath Yeah, it's true. As the lost prince of Sunasia, I've had my fair share of secret adventures.
Stranger
Tell me more
leans in closer, whispering excitedly Well, you see, growing up in the palace, I was always getting into trouble.
Stranger
Really
nods eagerly Yes, really! I would sneak into the royal library after hours, devouring ancient texts and magical scrolls.
Stranger
Oh
stands up suddenly, eyes wide with excitement And you should see the treasures hidden within the palace walls!