The instant the wounded man in the center of the lobby realized Andrew's presence, his countenance changed instantly. He lifted his chin haughtily, cocked his nose and, consequently, his eyes, and let his dreadlocks fall back. This was Davster Herond, a noted and respected warrior of the Royal Guard, but he did not know Andrew, nor did Andrew know him.
Davster's imposing figure matched his black skin, which stood out even more in contrast to the white armor he wore, which by the way was flawless, showing his fearless devotion to the kingdom.
The shining armor reflected the dim light of the incoming moon, highlighting every meticulously crafted detail. An imposing sword rested in his steady hands, a natural extension of his commitment to honor. His serious eyes conveyed the determination that dwelt in his heart, a tireless guardian of the people he was sworn to protect, and consequently one that made any kind of enemy fear for his life before him.
Therefore, when Davster perceived Andrew's presence, he did not hesitate for a moment. Not recognizing the player's face, in the blink of an eye he advanced toward the intruder with his agile and strong legs, making him reach a frightening speed.
However, Andrew was also not a gambler like most.
The swords of the two clashed in a metallic clash, and sparks from this encounter flew through the air as the two men's gazes met.
Davster's expression remained unwavering, a combination of caution, resolution, and weariness. He had an obligation to protect the royal family, and faced with a stranger in the palace, his defensive posture was justified. With a firm voice, Davster broke the tense silence.
"Who are you? Friend or foe?" inquired the guard with his penetrating eyes assessing Andrew as he held his guard high. His training and experience made him a formidable opponent, but his protective nature prevented him from seeking answers only after taking action.
Andrew, sensing Davster's seriousness and determination, and being able to see that this man was wearing the same armor as some of the soldiers outside the palace, stepped back with a leap and lowered his sword slightly. His gaze met the warrior's and he realized that they both shared the same objective: to protect the royal family.
In a calm voice, Andrew replied:
"I am Andrew, an ally, I think. I've come to help at Klaus' request."
Davster examined Andrew with experienced eyes, looking for signs of sincerity in his words and actions. After a moment of tense silence, he lowered his sword slightly, but remained vigilant, ready to act if trust was not fully established.
"Klaus? Ah... So he uses that name with you." Davster stated.
"So, you know him?"
Andrew asked, curious at Davster's mention of Klaus.
Davster nodded, turning to look at the rest of the lobby they were in. "Yes, Klaus is a name I know. He is a trusted ally of the royal family."
"And you're not going to ask where he is?"
"I don't need to. If he sent you, then there must be a reason for it."
The guard's answers made Andrew realize what kind of character this NPC was. "Do you know where the princesses are?"
"No, I arrived after the wall had already fallen, again.... I was on a mission elsewhere in the city, so I know as much about what's going on as you do."
"Then don't be about it. Let's go fast, we need to find them as soon as possible, they could be in danger." Andrew said, walking forward.
However, Davster turned toward him and placed his hand on his chest, stopping him from moving forward. "Wait, boy. Don't be so hasty or you'll end up killing us, or I'll kill you myself. I don't know why they're attacking us once again, but I have a sneaking suspicion of who it is, and if you saw what they did to the garden just by being here, you must understand that whoever is here is not weak."
Andrew nodded, obeying. "So, what are we going to do?"
"I know this place and I also know which is the safest place. The princesses are smart, so I believe they probably noticed the attack starting and went to that place. If we are lucky, we will find them sooner than whoever is after them."
"Then let's follow your plan. Where is this safe place you mentioned?" asked Andrew, remaining calm and focused.
Davster studied Andrew's expression for a moment before answering. "There is a secret passage at the back of the palace. That passage leads to an underground tunnel that leads to an ancient fortress that was used as a vault by former kings and is now the tomb of several of them. It is a place that few people know about, but it is well protected and would hardly be discovered by invaders. If the princesses realized the attack and remembered the existence of this tunnel, it is possible that they sought refuge there."
Andrew agreed with the idea and followed Davster, who was leading the way through the palace corridors.
The chaos of the battle outside contrasted with the relative tranquility inside the palace, but there was still a sense of urgency in the air.
However, when Davster stepped forward to start walking, his body became weak and he fell to his knees.
Andrew's eyes widened, startled, and he caught the man before he fell to the ground. "What happened? Are you okay?"
"It seems that the battle against these things has demanded too much of my body and the poison from their claws has already seeped into my blood. I only have a few minutes, being optimistic." Davster revealed.
Andrew felt a tightness in his chest upon hearing Davster's words. He knew that time was short and that the situation was serious. Looking around for help, he spotted several doors, where he could perhaps find a healing potion.
"Wait a moment, I can find something to help you." said Andrew with determination, but before he could get up, Davster pulled on his arm.
"No, that's useless. We'll just waste time trying to save me.... Damn, I admit it, but if Kaizen sent you here, I'll trust you too." Davster admitted, already with his eyes almost closed. "Follow the corridor to the right of the main staircase to the end, and when you find the lobby that is at the back, you will find several vases exposed. Take the third vase out of place and this will open a stairway to the underground part of the palace. After that, you know what you must do. Find the princesses and keep them safe. Kaizen will surely sort everything out and stop this attack."
Andrew felt a mixture of concern and determination upon hearing Davster's words. He understood the importance of the mission and the responsibility that rested on his shoulders.
With a solemn nod, he promised himself that he would do everything in his power to protect the princesses and find a solution to the chaotic situation.
"Rest assured, my friend. I will follow your instructions and find the princesses. You can trust me." Andrew said, moving on. 'By the way, did he speak Kaizen or was it my impression?'