Drakonis

Celebration

Getting dressed for dinner tonight, the king was hosting a grand celebration for Nestor's 17th birthday. As the young prince neared the age when he would assume his future responsibilities, the entire kingdom was abuzz with excitement.

My family was finishing their preparations, and as I put on my clothes, I overheard my mother's voice from the living room. "You have to speak with him again, Vorian," she said, her tone filled with urgency.

"I will tonight, Thalia," my father replied. I listened, intrigued but unsure about the nature of their conversation. Our parents had been preoccupied lately, working closely with Theron and coordinating with our home base. But once they returned home, my mother hardly spoke to him anymore. She was still upset about his decision to send Uhroh into battle.

I buried myself in my duties on the wall, trying to avoid the tension between them and the growing unease at home. Meanwhile, Olympia and Eli played on the floor, already dressed for the occasion.

Entering the kitchen, I found Ashley busy preparing a traditional cake from our homeland to present as a gift. "Do you know what they're arguing about?" I asked her as she carefully placed the final decorations on the cake.

"Aunt Eldrith sent a troubling message earlier today," Ashley said quietly. "A new ship from space landed a few days ago. More humans, I assume. Your mother wants to go join Uhroh."

My heart skipped a beat at her words. "Is everyone safe?" I asked, my voice tinged with worry.

"They are, but a Uhroh has been working hard to manage the situation and prevent further incursions," she explained.

I felt a pang of guilt. "How could I have missed this? What can we do?" I asked, my fear evident.

"Don't blame yourself, Loran," she said with a reassuring smile. "You're just a teenager. This isn't something you need to fix right now." She laughed softly to lighten the mood.

I nodded not having much time to discuss, the call to gather came from my mother, I helped Ashley pack up the cake, as we headed out.

As we made our way to the grand hall, the excitement was palpable. The hallway was adorned with banners and garlands, and the sound of laughter and music echoed through the castle. The guests, all dressed in their finest, mingled and exchanged greetings, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Nestor, stood at the center of the celebration, surrounded by well-wishers. His smile was radiant, and he looked every bit the heir to the throne. I caught his eye as we entered and nodded in acknowledgment, which he returned.

Mother and father joined the other nobles, deep in conversation about the evening's events. I slipped into the crowd with Olympia and Eli, who were eager to explore the array of entertainment and food set out for the guests. The evening was filled with music, dance, and laughter, providing a welcome distraction from the troubling news earlier.

Ashley, having finished setting up the cake, joined us shortly. She seemed more relaxed now, blending in with the festivities. We chatted and enjoyed the celebration, though my mind kept drifting back to the message from Aunt Eldrith.

After a while, a hush fell over the hall as the king took to the stage to address the guests. His voice, strong and commanding, carried across the room. "Thank you all for joining us this evening to celebrate the coming of age of my son, Prince Nestor. Tonight marks the beginning of a new chapter for him and for our kingdom."

The crowd erupted in applause, their cheers echoing through the grand hall as Nymara stepped forward. With a graceful flourish, she unfolded a small piece of parchment and began to speak, her voice carrying the weight of tradition and the promise of the future.