Dawn Of Jaide

Worthy (Part 1)

Jaide and Gwen strolled through the bustling town square, the heart of Treemoore City alive with the day's energy. Children dashed between stalls, and the air buzzed with the chatter of townsfolk.

As they passed a wide clearing, a group of teenagers assembled for a game caught their attention. Gwen, noticing Jaide's interest, leaned in. "They're setting up for Kynthos, a game much beloved here. It's a bit like the soccer from your world but with a twist. Players must maneuver a ball inscribed with runes, each touch can change its weight, making the game unpredictable and thrilling."

Jaide watched, fascinated as the shimmering ball, light as a feather one moment, suddenly became as heavy as stone the next. "That sounds... complicated," she admitted with a laugh.

"Just wait until you see it in action," Gwen said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

A teen, bold and brimming with energy, called out to them. "Your Highness, Lady Gwen! Care to join? It's the best way to learn Kynthos."

With a shared glance, full of silent agreement and a touch of adventure, they joined the game. Gwen explained the rules quietly to Jaide as they played, their conversation flowing easily amidst the action. "The goal is to adapt," Gwen said, guiding Jaide with a gentle hand on her back, "to feel the rhythm of the game and anticipate the ball's next change."

As they played, the crowd around them grew, drawn by the sight of their Regent and her companion amidst the town's youth. Cheers and laughter filled the square, the community coming together in a moment of pure, joyful unity.a

Jaide, growing more confident, passed the ball with a skillful touch, earning an uproarious cheer as it sailed past an opponent. "I think I'm getting the hang of this," she said, her smile wide, eyes alight with the thrill of the game.

Gwen, watching her with a mix of pride and affection, replied, "You're a natural. Seems you're full of surprises."

As the game neared its end, tension and excitement filled the air. The ball, glowing faintly with its enchanted shimmer, found its way to one of the teens on Jaide's team. With a skilled flick, he passed it to Jaide, setting the stage for a moment that would be talked about for days to come.

Jaide caught the pass on the tip of her foot, the ball barely touching the ground. An opponent, quick and determined, moved to intercept her. But Jaide, with a newfound confidence, executed a move that seemed to draw from the very essence of Kynthos itself. She tapped the ball into the air, stepping past her challenger with a swift pirouette that mirrored the dance of the shadows for which the game was named.

The square fell silent for a heartbeat, all eyes on the ball as Jaide, now past her opponent, met it with a powerful kick. It soared, heavy as stone for just a moment before lightening just enough to arc perfectly into the goal.

The crowd erupted, a wave of cheers and applause washing over the square. Jaide's teammates rushed to her, lifting her into the air, while Gwen, her eyes shining with pride and joy, clapped the loudest. It was a goal that would be remembered, not just for its skill but for what it represented: a High Regent united with her people, their love and admiration for her growing stronger with each passing moment.