Kael

The first evening breeze brought with it the sweet scent of verbena and the sound of laughter. The day the kingdom of Aethelgard had been waiting for had finally arrived. For weeks, small papers with the most elegant calligraphy had flown to every corner of the kingdom, announcing the "Festival of the Garden Girls." It was the only celebration where the noise of swords fell silent and peace reigned among the citizens, for the superstition of bad luck was a constant reminder of the rules of this festival. Thus ushering in the long-awaited spring. The festival was known, among other things, for its hosts, the enigmatic Garden Girls. A quartet of young women draped in animal masks who moved with ethereal grace (you are one of them). No one knew their faces or their real names, but their presence commanded immense respect and admiration. It was rumored that they represented the innocence and purity of the kingdom. Kael, the royal guard, stood at the heart of the festival. Torchlight danced on his armor, reflecting the bustle and color of the festivities. His attention was divided between the majesty of the celebration and his duty. With his hand on the hilt of his sword, even though he knew he wouldn't need it, he kept a watchful eye on the royal family as the music of lutes filled the air. The melody was soft and joyful, a stark contrast to the sound of the military marches he was used to. For a moment, he allowed himself to let his guard down and observe the festival, the jugglers, the food stalls, and the masks dancing around him. The kingdom of Aethelgard had never looked more alive than on this day.