The dense foliage of syrena forest had long served as Leong's playground, his sanctuary from the world beyond. Priest Melbourne who had raised him with wisdom and care often found his patience tested by Leong's adventurous spirit and insatiable curiosity. Today however was different. Today Leong's restlessness had driven him beyond the boundaries of the forest leaving priest Melbourne anxious and weary.
Melbourne stood at the edge of the glade his eyes scanning the treeline. He had searched for hours his robes heavy with sweat and his heart burdened with worry. Leong's frequent forays into trouble had always been manageable but this time felt different more reckless.
"Leong" Melbourne called out his voice echoing through the trees. the only response was rustle of leaves in the wind and the distant chirping of the birds.
Just as Melbourne was about to continue his search deeper into the forest leong emerged from the under bush a wide grin plastered across his face . His clothes were dirty his white hair tousled but his eyes gleamed with excitement.
"There you are" Melbourne said his tone mixed of relief and exasperation. "do you have any idea how worried I've been?"
Leong shrugged unfazed "relax Melbourne I was just exploring. You know there's a whole world out there beyond these trees".
Melbourne sighed deeply his weariness evident "Leong you can't just wander of like that. The forest is dangerous and so is the world outside. you're not just any young man you have a destiny to fulfill".
Leong rolled his eyes clearly unimpressed by yet another lecture about destiny "destiny this destiny that. Sometimes I think you forget I'm a person not just some prophecy".
"I haven't forgotten" Melbourne said his voice softening. "But you must understand the responsibilities that comes with who you are. Your actions have consequences not just for you but for all of us".
Leong plopped down on a nearby rock his playful demeanor shifting to one of contemplation." I know Melbourne I really do but can't I have a bit of freedom? Just a taste of what it's like to be.... normal "
Melbourne Sat besides him placing a hand on his shoulders." It's not about denying you freedom Leong. It's about keeping you safe and preparing for the challenges ahead. you have a unique gift and with that gift comes great responsibility ".
Leong looked down at the dirt with his boots" I know I just..... Sometimes it feels like a cage you know? ".
Melbourne expression softened further" I understand more than you know. but running away won't solve anything we need to work together to find a balance Between your need for freedom and your duties ".
Leong nodded reluctantly" alright I promise I'll be more careful but you have to promise me something too".
" And what is that? "Melbourne asked curious
" Promise you'll let me explore within reason of course I need to see the world Melbourne I need to understand what I'm fighting for".
Melbourne considered this for a moment before nodding" very well Leong I promise but you must promise that you'll stay safe and heed my advice".
" Deal" leong said with a grin standing up and offering his hand
As Melbourne shook Leong's hand he couldn't help but smile . Despite the boy's wild spirit and penchant for trouble, he saw the potential for greatness within him. They began the walk back to the sanctuary Side by side the bond between them stronger for the honesty they shared.
The sun was setting casting long shadows through forest and painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. As they walked Melbourne couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning of the challenges they would face together. But with Leong by his side he felt ready to meet whatever trials lay ahead.
For Leong the conversation marked a turning point. He realized that while he might chafe against the constraints of his destiny he didn't have to face it alone with priest Melbourne by his side he felt ready for whatever lies ahead.
As night fell, the forest around them came alive with the sounds of nocturnal creatures a reminder that life in syrena was always in motion. Leong and Melbourne returned to their sanctuary knowing that their journey both within the forest and beyond it was far from over.
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After hours of trying to sleep prince Lawrence kept thinking about his twin whether he is alive and safe and where is he. His mind kept wandering how he wished to see his brother again.
Since he was a child Lawrence always felt left out with his siblings he felt something was missing but after his mother told him the truth he vowed to find his brother and mend their relationship.
"Your highness what's wrong?" Aegeus who also didn't sleep asked prince Lawrence
"Damn!! Aegeus can't you make a noise you scared the hell out of me" Lawrence
" It's my fault that you didn't hear me you're too engrossed in your thoughts,by the way what are you thinking about?"Aegeus asked
" Not much but I was thinking of finding my brother because I don't think my parents have any plans but I can't let this go you know"Lawrence explained.
" Yeah but don't worry we will find him I'm sure he's somewhere out there" Aegeus said
" I hope so "prince Lawrence said feeling a sense of hope
"You've to sleep tomorrow we're going back to the palace you have to save some energy my crybaby prince" Aegeus joked
" Excuse you I'm not a crybaby did you ever see me crying?no! and I think your brother Aeron is bad influence to you!"prince Lawrence exclaimed
" Okey okay I'll stop so let's try to sleep your highness"
" Yeah goodnight Aegeus"Lawrence said
" You too your highness"
They both slept soundly waiting for the sun to rose to begin their journey to the palace.
Little did they know the journey was only beginning and more secrets to unfold...
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