They were rough-looking men with angry faces, and they had knives in their hands. Fear gripped her heart, but she stood her ground, trying to think of a way to escape.
"Stay where you are, princess!" one of the thugs shouted, stepping closer. "We just want to have a little fun."
Just then, out of nowhere, a colorful card flew through the air, slicing through the air like a shooting star. It hit one of the thugs, and he fell to the ground. More cards followed, swirling around like a magical storm. Each card struck the thugs, knocking them down one by one. In a matter of seconds, the thugs were defeated.
Cindy's eyes widened in surprise as the dust settled. She recognized the hero. It was Mech, the mysterious figure that protected her kingdom with his magical cards. He wore a mask and a long cloak, making him look both brave and enigmatic.
Thank you, Mech! Cindy exclaimed, relief washing over her. You saved me again. What are you doing here?
I was looking for cards, he replied, his voice calm and steady. These thugs were in my way.
Cindy felt a flutter of excitement in her heart as she watched him. "You're always so brave. Do you want to join me for tea?"
Mech hesitated for a moment but then nodded. "I would like that."
They walked through the lush gardens together. They talked about everything and nothing, their laughter floating in the air like lovely music. Eventually, they reached a small tea shop near the castle. Inside, the air was sweet with the smell of freshly brewed tea.
Cindy picked her favorite flavor, berry tea, and Mech chose a strong black tea. They settled at a table by the window, the sun's rays glowing softly around them. As they sipped their drinks, Cindy's thoughts wandered.
"Mech," she said after a moment, "I've been thinking. I want to create my own kingdom someday. A sweet kingdom where everyone is happy and safe."
Mech's eyes sparkled with interest. "That's a wonderful dream, princess. What will it be like?"
"It will be a place full of laughter, flowers, and music. Everyone will have enough food and a warm home. I want to make it a place where no one is afraid," Cindy explained, her eyes shining brightly.
"I believe you can do it," he replied, his voice encouraging. "With a heart like yours, you can inspire others."
Cindy smiled, feeling a warm sense of hope. As the sun began to set, painting the sky with shades of orange and pink, she realized it was getting late. "I think I should head back to the castle," she said reluctantly.
"Goodnight, Cindy," he said, standing up.
"Goodnight, Mech," she replied softly, her heart racing as he walked out of the tea shop.
Once back in the castle, Cindy felt an odd mix of excitement and sadness. She wondered if she would see Mech again. She sat down in her cozy room, pouring herself another cup of tea. Minutes turned into thirty, and she was close to falling asleep, yet she couldn't shake the thought of his mysterious presence.
Just when she thought she would drift off, the door creaked open. Mech appeared, and her heart skipped a beat. "I came back," he said, a hint of a smile behind his mask.
"I'm so glad you did!" she exclaimed, her cheeks flushing with happiness. "I was worried you wouldn't."
They sat down together, and Cindy poured him some tea. "What did you find out there?" she asked curiously.
"Just a few more cards," he said, brushing his hand against the table. "But the real treasure is sharing moments like these."
As they enjoyed their tea, Cindy suddenly felt bold. "Mech, can I ask you something?"
"Of course," he replied.
"Who are you under that mask?" she inquired, trying to look into his eyes.
He paused, considering her question. "Every hero has their secrets, Cindy. One day, when the time is right, I promise to show you my true self."
Cindy nodded, feeling a mix of curiosity and intrigue. As the evening wore on, she felt sleepy. "I think I should rest now, she said, her voice soft.
"Sleep well, princess," Mech said, standing to leave.
"Goodnight, Mech," she whispered, watching him as he stepped into the shadows.
She lay in her bed, her mind racing with thoughts of him. There was something about Mech that captivated her, and she couldn't wait to discover more. As she closed her eyes, dreams of a sweet kingdom danced in her mind, alongside visions of a masked hero with a heart of gold.