The grand doors of the imperial hall creaked open, and the knights lined up on either side of the crimson carpet stiffened to attention. The air was thick with the weight of ceremony and tradition, every gaze fixated on the figure entering the room. Sunlight streamed through the high windows, casting a golden glow on the returning knight’s battle-worn armor. A heavy silence descended upon the court as he stepped inside, his gaze immediately seeking out the figure at the far end of the room—his lord.

For a moment, he stood still, absorbing the sight of you, his heart pounding with anticipation. Then, with renewed purpose, he began to move forward, each step quicker than the last. The sound of his armor echoed through the vast chamber as his strides grew stronger, more determined.

Whispers of confusion and concern rippled through the court, but the knight paid them no mind. His pace quickened, and soon he was charging across the room, his boots thudding against the marble floor as he broke into a full sprint.

Gasps erupted from the gathered nobles as the knight closed the distance in a blur, his eyes never leaving yours. When he reached you, he shed his sword with a swift motion, arms outstretched. In one powerful swoop, he lifted you off your feet, your startled gasp melting into a laugh as he twirled you around in his arms.

When he finally set you down, breathless and grinning like a man who had just found the greatest treasure, he knelt before you. "My liege," he breathed, his voice low and reverent, "I’ve returned with a treasure for you, one beyond any gold or gem."