Anticipation

The city is abuzz as coronation day arrives. Kael paces, strangely nervous as he waits in an antechamber for the ceremony to begin. He’s wearing the traditional robes of state, deep green with golden threads, and that doesn’t help his discomfort. He would have preferred to be wearing his armor, but the nobles insisted upon tradition. It’s expected, even for as non traditional of a ruler as Kael, and some traditions can’t be avoided.

Ria is wearing similar robes, and though she seems more comfortable, Kael can tell by the way she’s glancing around that she’s as nervous as he is. Evie, meanwhile, seems completely at ease, dressed in the beautiful dress she was trying on the other night. The petite elf smiles at Kael, and he returns the smile, his nervousness easing a touch. He chuckles, reflecting on how much of a comfort she is to him, and walks over to embrace her. Gabby, meanwhile, is casually seated in a chair. The holstaur won’t be participating in the ceremony, much to her relief. Though an enthusiastic member of their little family, Gabby is happy to stay out of the spotlight.

Just as Kael wraps Evie in a hug, the door opens to the antechamber, and a well dressed official steps inside. “My lord Kael, my ladies Ria and Evie. It’s time to begin. Please follow me.”

After a pause, he turns to Gabby. “Ma’am, the companions of the champions are gathered on the observation balcony, up the stairs to the left. You are welcome to join them.”

With that, he leads Kael, Ria, and Evie out of the room, and on the short walk to the familiar doorway which leads out to the crowd. Kael can hear the gathered people outside, louder than he’s ever heard them. In front of the door are the champions. No, HIS champions, Kael realizes. Orin stands in the center, a look of amusement flickering across his face.

“Kael, you look ridiculous.”

Kael looks down at the robes he’s wearing. “I know. Traditions.”

He looks back to Orin and grins. “But aren’t you supposed to refer to me as ‘my lord’?”

Orin rolls his eyes, but he returns the grin. To his right stands Koa, imposing in his gleaming armor. The giant of a man salutes, a faint smile on his kindly face as well. Kael nods in return, glad as always that Koa is on his side.

To Orin’s left stands Petra, less imposing but likely far more dangerous. Her face is impassive, but there’s a sparkle of happiness in her eyes. She gives the faintest of nods, clearly more concerned with her vigilance than any show of affection at the moment. Kael is happy enough with that, having plenty on his mind as it is.

The two newest champions round out the group. Kael hasn’t had much time to get to know Tarik and Lucia, but he can see that they are eager to prove themselves, which is enough for now. He resolves to sit down with them once things calm down, as there’s sure to be an interesting story there.

Kael is pulled from his thoughts as the official steps forward, standing in front of the door. “It’s time to begin. Lord’s champions, please lead the way.”

With that, he swings wide the double doors, and the crowd outside erupts in cheers as Orin leads the way outside. Taking a deep breath, Kael follows, along with Ria and Evie. As they emerge into the sunlight, the cheers are almost painfully loud. Evie hesitates for a moment before the wall of sound, instinctively reaching for Kael’s hand. Kae squeezes her hand gently, leading her along with him and Ria to where the gathering of nobles await.