Chapter 9: Avalon
The next day, the sunlight was coming through Astrael’s window.
A soft knock, followed by Ealar’s entrance, carrying a wooden bowl where the prescribed ginseng was mixed in warm water, releasing a clean, earthy scent.
"Young Lord, it’s time for your medicine," she announced gently.
Astrael stirred, blinking his eyes from the remnant sleep.
"Good morning, Elara," he greeted, pushing himself up. He took the bowl as he sipped the slightly bitter medicine.
THUD. THUD. THUD.
RIGHT. LEFT. RIGHT. LEFT.
A rhythmic, heavy sound echoed from outside, marching footsteps and sharp commands in the morning.
Astrael paused, lowering the bowl. "What’s that sound, Elara?"
"That’s Guard Captain Sir Avalon, Young Lord," she replied, tidying the bedside table. "He’s drilling the soldiers on the training grounds. Early as always."
"Captain Avalon..." Astrael’s thoughts raced. The head of the guard.