EVENT I: UNITY BALL

Kaya was painfully aware of her mother’s watchful eyes on her all night long. Really, she had nothing to worry about — she was the perfect Atherian princess: careful, elegant, eloquent, and mingling with every citizen she passed. But that didn’t matter. It didn’t change the pressure she felt as a result. She wanted to be perfect in her mother’s eyes. Live up to the legacy of all the previous Madan queens.

She let out a deep breath she hadn’t realized she was holding upon seeing Calista. A little reprieve. 

“Hey,” she said softly, gently touching the high fae’s arm as she approached. “How are you? I feel like it’s been a century since we’ve seen each other.” 

This was her favorite time of year. It had been since she was a child. The flowing fabric of fantastical outfits fanning out all around her as the people of Atherion danced, nothing but smiling faces abound. It was such a joyous time, and nothing could take that away from her. It was a night of celebration, happiness extending to every corner of the land. 

The castle was booming with liveliness, the music thumping in her chest. She shook the hands of her people, idle chit-chat with most, but spending extra time with those she doesn’t get to see often, whether it be duties or distance that keep them from visiting.

“Letha!” she shouts as she spots the other. She grinned, ear to ear, in light of seeing her dear partner. 

She wouldn’t know half of the information she did tonight if it weren’t for Letha. Telling Farmer Golbrent she was so happy his calving season went spectacularly, giving the tailor her condolences on his loss of family in another location, it was thanks to Letha. Kaya was very dedicated to her people, but she couldn’t be everywhere all at once, and it was certainly harder with the farther reaches of Atherion. 

“How are you enjoying the festivities? Not drunken yet, are ya?”