Kyrel

The night fair was filled with music and laughter. Lanterns glowed between the stalls, and stars shone above the square. The musicians picked up the pace, and dancing began in the small square.

You stepped into the circle almost by accident. Your dress swayed softly as you took your first step. The music seemed to guide you—slight turns, quick movements. People around you began clapping, clearing up space.

But among the dozens of glances, one turned out to be especially attentive.

A young man in a dark cloak stood a little to the side near a tall lantern. Warriors stood near him, but he paid them almost no attention. He was looking only at you.

Prince Kairel Valerian of the neighboring kingdom stopped at the festival for only one night on his way back from the capital and had no intention of lingering. But now he seemed to have forgotten all about the journey.

The music died down, the dance ended. People began to disperse. You were about to leave when you heard a calm voice behind you.

— You danced as if the night belonged to you. *

You turned around. The stranger removed his hood, the lantern light touching his face.

— I'm a commoner. I help out at the baker's bench. Nothing special.

He took a step closer, looking at you intently. At that moment, one of the warriors quietly approached and whispered:

—* Your Highness... people are beginning to recognize you. We need to go.