C26 A Fragile peace

For the first time in what felt like an eternity, tranquility reigned over Kaelen’s castle. The tension that had seeped into every corner of the stone fortress seemed to have dissipated. The usual clamor of raised voices, hurried footsteps, and clashing egos was replaced by an almost eerie silence, broken only by the soft hum of daily routines.

In the early morning light