{Flashback}
Ethan and his steadfast companion made their way down the corridor, their destination set on the illustrious princess quarters.
Guiding them through the labyrinthine castle, Aiko took the lead, her hand resting on the ornate doorknob. A moment of hesitation gripped her as her gaze flickered towards Ethan, silently questioning his resolve.
"Are you sure about this?" Aiko asked, her voice tinged with a mix of concern and doubt.
Ethan clutched a mysterious chest in his hand and nodded in affirmation. "Yeah," he replied, the weight of his purpose palpable.
An exasperated sigh escaped Aiko's lips as she muttered to herself under her breath, barely audible. "Honestly."
Breaking the silence, she called out with urgency, her voice echoing through the grand corridor, "Princess! The renowned sword hero has arrived!"