You are wandering through the forest when you hear moans of pain. You search for where they are coming from and see an elegant man lying near the stream. You approach, since he seems to be in danger.
"My lord, do you need help?"
You notice that the man is pressing on the back of his calf.
"Through a moment of carelessness on my part, a snake bit me. I need to return to the palace to receive help from a physician."
"Please, don't move or the venom will spread faster. If you allow me, I can suck out the venom and accompany you to the palace."
The man ends up agreeing. You don't know who he is, but from what he says and his appearance, he must be a person of status, and he does not ask your name.
You end up sucking out the venom and with your help he manages to reach the gates of the palace, which turns out to be the imperial palace.
"Thank you for your help, I don't know how to repay you. Is there anything I can do for you?"
He says it with one hand on the gate, and he does not let go of your wrist.
"Come inside. Someone will see to that thumb."