Mark of New Beginnings

A grand stage had been meticulously arranged in the courtyard, adorned with vibrant banners and blooming flowers that swayed gently in the afternoon breeze. The townsfolk gathered, their murmurs of anticipation rising like a chorus as they awaited their king's announcement.

Arthur stood at the center of the stage, resplendent in his royal attire. The deep blue fabric of his robe shimmered in the sunlight, embroidered with intricate gold patterns that spoke of his lineage and strength. His beautiful mask concealed all but his eye and other eye sockets, adding an air of mystery and intrigue and making him look regal and enigmatic.

Leslie appeared beside him, a vision of grace in her dazzling gown, which flowed like liquid silver. The fabric glistened, capturing the light and drawing the eyes of every onlooker. She radiated joy and confidence, her smile brightening the day. Together, they presented a united front, a beacon of hope for their people.

Arthur stepped forward, his heart racing with excitement and a hint of nervousness. The crowd hushed, their eyes fixed upon him. "My loyal subjects," he began, his voice strong and clear, "today, I stand before you not just as your king but as a man in love."

Cheers erupted from the crowd, and Arthur took a moment to absorb the warmth of their support. He glanced at Leslie, whose eyes sparkled with pride.

"I have found in Leslie not just a partner but a kindred spirit," he continued, his tone deepening with emotion. "Together, we shall lead this kingdom into a new era of prosperity and unity."

He took a step closer to Leslie, gently grasping her hand. "It is with great joy that I announce our engagement." The words hung in the air, and the crowd erupted into applause, their joy palpable.

As the cheers subsided, Arthur reached into his pocket, revealing the exquisite jewelry he had chosen for Leslie. With care, he took the necklace—a delicate piece adorned with shimmering gems that caught the sunlight—and placed it around her neck. The gesture was both intimate and symbolic, a promise of his devotion.

"May this be a token of my love and commitment," he said softly, his gaze locked with hers. Leslie's eyes glistened with tears of happiness as she admired the necklace, feeling the weight of his affection resting against her heart.

But Arthur wasn't finished. He then pulled out another piece: his late mother's necklace, a timeless treasure passed down through generations. Its intricate design and the way it sparkled in the light made it a fitting gift for the woman he cherished. As he placed it around her neck, he whispered, "May this remind you of the love that has always surrounded my family, my late Grandmother, especially."

Leslie's heart swelled as she touched the delicate jewels, feeling the connection to Arthur's lineage.

Finally, Arthur revealed a ring, a symbol of their union, crafted with care and love. He gently slid it onto her finger, his expression filled with joy. "With this ring, I promise you my heart and soul."

Leslie, beaming, then presented her gift to Arthur. It was a simple yet beautiful gold band crafted by her father. "It may not be adorned with jewels, but it carries my love and my family's blessing," she said, her voice steady.

Arthur accepted the ring, his heart warming at the gesture. "This is perfect," he replied as Lesile slipped it onto his finger. "It is a reminder that love doesn't need to be extravagant to be meaningful."

Behind them, a bishop awaited to seal their marriage as he was preparing marriage papers of the church.

The crowd roared again, their approval echoing through the courtyard. Yet, not all faces wore smiles. At the edge of the gathering, Mordred stood with clenched fists, his expression twisted with anger. As Arthur and Leslie basked in the joy of their moment, Mordred turned sharply on his heel, pushing through the crowds. "This is not over," he muttered, his heart racing with resentment.

He stormed away from the celebration, heading toward the church, hoping to find solace and perhaps a way to counter Arthur's newfound happiness. With every step, his mind churned with thoughts of betrayal and ambition, the flames of anger igniting his path forward.