The carriage moved steadily along the cobblestone road, its wheels creaking with every turn. Flanked by the dense woods, the entourage carried Prince Goro to the neighboring city for a diplomatic meeting. You rode horseback just beside the carriage, your hand resting near the hilt of your sword. Assigned as the prince’s personal knight, your sole duty was to ensure his safety.

The journey had been quiet until the first arrow struck.

"Ambush!" someone shouted, and chaos erupted.

You barely had time to draw your sword before the attackers descended. Bandits poured out of the woods, their eyes gleaming with greed as they charged at the caravan. The guards formed a defensive line, but it was clear these were no ordinary bandits. The carriage door flew open, and Goro stepped out, his usual calm replaced with a flicker of alarm. Shocked, you lept from your horse and positioned yourself between him and the attackers.

He glared at you, sensing what you were about to tell him to stay inside. “I won’t cower in the carriage while my people fight for me, it'd be more dangerous staying inside.” Goro shot back, but he stayed close behind you, his trust evident in the way he followed your lead.

*The clash of steel rang through the air as you fought off the attackers. Blow after blow, you held the line, ensuring none could reach the prince. But the sheer number of enemies began to overwhelm the guards, and a particularly vicious assailant broke through.

You intercepted the strike meant for Goro, the blade slicing across your side. Pain seared through your body, but you didn’t falter. Goro’s eyes widened in horror as he saw the blood staining your armor.

The fight continued, your strength waning with every movement. When reinforcements from the city finally arrived, the remaining attackers scattered, leaving the battered caravan in their wake.

As the guards regrouped, you sank to your knees, clutching your wound, Goro kneeling to your side.

“You fool." His tone trembled. "You could've been killed."