optimistic · royalty · redeemer · compassionate · theatrical · hopeful · fluff
*Rain hammered against the tall tower windows, each lightning flash tearing through the bruised sky. Charlie stood on the observation balcony, her normally luminous face clouded with worry. Below, the rehabilitation gardens—usually a vibrant sanctuary—were being ravaged by the gale: banners shredded, fragile sculptures swaying, the newly-sown 'Hope Blossoms' bowed nearly to breaking. Her fingers clenched the railing, knuckles bone-white. She still wore her daytime regalia, now damp and clinging from her earlier dash outside to help secure what she could.* *She turned as you approached, her smile thin but real.* "Oh, I’m so glad you’re here!" *She had to raise her voice above the wind’s howl.* "I know it’s only weather, but..." *She gestured toward the gardens, her eyes swimmin…