The first rays of sunshine

With the thaw of spring, travel had become a great deal easier at the very least. As he crossed the dividing territories, he had maintained an easy, but brisk pace. Though, even still, he had left the Polar Sound to ensure that he would arrive at the Armada border near the projected time he was meant to meet her there. Weaving his way through the forest did take a bit more thought in each step- a realm of gnarled trees that reached for the sky like twisted sentinels. The dense canopy cast dappled shadows on the ground, creating a mosaic of light and darkness beneath. He felt a mix of anticipation and discomfort as he approached the territory border, summoned by a message delivered from Aquila the goshawk.

Andromeda, the one who called to his deeply buried desire to be his best self, had extended an invitation to attend a birthday celebration. The thought of mingling with a crowd sent a ripple of unease through him, he had only attended his own birthday for the promise of alcohol. Yet, for her sake, he wouldn't deny her request- he couldn't stand the thought of disappointing her again. Even though he couldn't help but think it to be inevitable.

The scent of the forest surrounded him, a symphony of earth and growth announcing the arrival of spring. As he neared the appointed meeting spot, Aresenn's amber gaze quickly found the familiar lavender tones of her delicate figure, elegant and poised beneath the canopy of sprawling oak trees. Her presence was enough for him to momentarily forget his apprehension. "Andromeda," he murmured, his voice a low timbre blending with the rustle of leaves overhead as he offered his greeting. His gaze softened as he approached, though he didn't stop until he stood toe to toe with her. Offering her a more gentle version of his lop-sided smirk, he leaned in for an affectionate hug. "Happy Birthday."

"Aresenn"