Tirnanog

High above the clouds, in the grand city of Ketergia, two knights stood guard at one of the kingdom's main entrances. Their presence alone commanded attention, each wearing their distinct armor as a symbol of the power and hierarchy that ruled the city.

Fort, a 16-year-old knight, stood tall, his long red hair flowing out from beneath a feathered headband. The headband was an emblem worn by all knights in Ketergia, a symbol of their loyalty to the kingdom. His blue-and-white armor gleamed in the sunlight, almost as if reflecting the purity of his beliefs. He gripped his sword, a fine weapon forged for someone of his rank—Grade 1. Though still young, Fort carried himself with the seriousness of someone much older, his determination clear in his gaze.

Beside him stood, an Elf named Rooks, his partner and a knight who had seen much more of the world. At 23 years old, Rooks was an experienced Grade 2 warrior, known throughout Ketergia for his charming personality and natural charisma. His purple hair, though shorter than Fort's flowing red locks, matched his laid-back demeanor perfectly. Rooks had an elf's agility and the skills of a spear user, wielding it with such grace that it seemed almost like an extension of himself.

Despite his high rank, Rooks was never one to take things seriously. He often flirted with the ladies in the city and seemed to spend more time enjoying life than engaging in the intense duty his position demanded. But beneath his carefree attitude, there was an undeniable talent and skill with his spear that earned him respect—if not admiration—from the people around him.

As the two knights stood at their post, their banter filled the air.

Fort leaned against the stone wall of Ketergia's upper district, his sword resting lazily by his side. The sun hung high in the sky, casting its warm rays across the city, but Fort's mood was anything but bright.

For the past few days, all he had been assigned to do was patrol the streets—nothing more, nothing less. There were no real threats, no action, just walking around, watching the same people, passing through the same districts. To Fort, it felt like nothing was happening.

"This is so boring," Fort muttered, glancing around at the peaceful, almost serene scene. "We're just walking around and doing nothing. This isn't what I signed up for."

Rooks, leaning against a nearby pillar, was having the time of his life. A few young women had passed by earlier, and he'd flashed them a cheeky smile, eliciting a few giggles in return. It was his usual routine—laziness with just enough charm to get by.

He looked at Fort, who was clearly frustrated. "Hey, don't look so glum, kid. Battle will come soon enough. These things are never predictable, but they're always exciting."

Fort sighed deeply, staring off into the distance. "I don't know. I feel like all we ever do is patrol. Ketergia's too peaceful right now."

"Peaceful? Nah, it's not peaceful. It's just... waiting." Rooks grinned, clearly enjoying himself. "You know, the real action is only just around the corner. Trust me, sooner or later, you're going to get to see what this world is really about. And when that happens... it'll be my moment to shine, of course."

Fort gave him a sidelong glance. "Your moment to shine, huh?"

"Of course," Rooks said, his purple hair swaying as he dramatically twirled his spear, sending a few nearby leaves fluttering to the ground. "I'm a Grade 2, after all. You're a Grade 1. When the time comes, I'll be the one leading the charge. You'll just have to follow my example." He winked, clearly amused by his own words.

Fort wasn't convinced. "I don't need you to 'lead the charge.' I can fight too, you know."

Rooks chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "Oh, I'm sure you can. But let's be real here—Grade 2s have a little more edge. Not that it's a competition." He grinned wider, teasing his younger partner. "But you'll see what I mean when the battle begins. You'll be grateful for the chance to follow my lead. And when we win, I'll let you have some of the glory."

Fort rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "You're impossible, you know that?"

"Impossible?" Rooks laughed. "I prefer to think of myself as... charmingly unpredictable." He shot Fort a wink before leaning back, watching the streets for any signs of action.

Though Fort remained skeptical about Rooks' carefree approach, he couldn't help but feel a small flicker of hope. Maybe the boredom would end soon. Maybe something would happen to break the monotony.

But for now, all he could do was wait. And, if Rooks was to be believed, maybe a battle was indeed on the horizon. It was just a matter of time.