Palace Royal Study
"Deklan! Do you even understand what you're thinking?" Arden, their father, barked sternly, glaring at his son from behind the large wooden desk where he sat. The study's heavy atmosphere made Deklan fidget, though he kept his chin up.
"But Father, I'm only trying to help the poor," Deklan protested, his voice pleading.
Arden's expression darkened, and with a sharp snap, the quill he was holding broke in his grip. "Look at your brother!" he thundered, pointing at Brius, who stood beside Deklan, his arms and torso wrapped in bandages. "He's injured! What would've happened if Brius hadn't been there to protect you?"
Arden's gaze shifted between his sons, a flash of anger mixed with concern. Brius, despite his injuries, stood tall, though his face betrayed signs of weariness. He gently placed a reassuring hand on Deklan's shoulder, trying to calm his younger brother.
"Have you two lost your minds? Wandering around the capital, disguised as villagers?" Arden let out a heavy sigh, rubbing his temples in frustration. "Why can't you just stay within the safety of the palace walls?"
His tone softened slightly, but the weight of his disappointment was clear. He turned back to his desk and hastily scribbled on a piece of parchment, his hands tense with anger.
"Get out." His voice was cold and final. "I'll find a more suitable way for you to reflect on your actions. Believe me, I will straighten your behavior."
Deklan and Brius exchanged nervous glances, their faces growing pale. They knew their father wasn't one to make idle threats. Arden, known for his heroic deeds and rigid adherence to the law, could not tolerate disobedience or disrespect. Punishment was certain.
Both brothers bowed their heads deeply before retreating from the study. As they stepped into the hallway, Brius tightened his grip on Deklan's hand, offering silent reassurance despite his own worry.
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Elsewhere in the Palace – Myra Jorin Ancaris's Chambers
In another wing of the palace, Myra, the youngest daughter of Arden, sat impatiently while her servants fussed over her appearance, brushing her hair and applying delicate oils to her skin. She let out a dramatic sigh, her gaze distant as she stared at her reflection in the mirror.
"I wonder what the royal kitchen will serve today," she mused aloud. "I hope it's not the usual fare. I need something that will boost my beauty."
At just 12 years old, Myra was already obsessed with her appearance. Her beauty was praised by all, from her parents to the entire Ethyros. With her striking features and unique sense of style—especially her short hair, a bold choice among young noblewomen—she had become a fashion icon. Her routines were eagerly followed by noble ladies far and wide, and her image adorned the front pages of newspapers.
As she daydreamed about her latest beauty regimen, the door to her chambers suddenly burst open with a bang.
"Myra!" Brius called out, his voice filled with excitement as he strode into the room.
Myra jumped, startled, and glared at her brother. "Brius! You could at least have knocked or let the servants announce you!"
But her irritation melted into concern when she finally took in his appearance. Brius stood before her, covered in bandages, clearly wounded. "What happened to you?" she asked, her worry evident as she stepped closer.
Brius shrugged casually, brushing off her concern. "Just another scar from the journey, nothing to worry about."
Despite his nonchalance, Myra frowned but didn't press further. Her attention was quickly diverted as Brius pulled a small cloth packet from his pocket, grinning.
"Look what I brought for you," he said, his eyes twinkling.
Myra's curiosity piqued. She hurried to his side, her irritation forgotten. "What is it?" she asked eagerly, eyeing the packet with anticipation.
Brius chuckled, enjoying her excitement, and handed her the packet. "It's a special tea from the East."
Myra's eyes widened as she opened the packet. "Red Robe!? But this is so expensive! It costs around 29,000 Zens!" she exclaimed, astonished.
Brius smiled warmly and ruffled her hair. "It's worth every Zen if it's for you."
Her excitement quickly turned to irritation. With a frown, she pinched Brius's ear, her earlier worry forgotten. "You ruined my hair!" she huffed. "I spent three hours having my servant style it, and you messed it up in three seconds!"
"Ow! Ow! Alright, alright, I'm sorry!"
Brius laughed, wincing as she tugged his ear, but he couldn't help but enjoy the moment. Her fiery temper and playful nature always made him smile.
Myra, still pouting, finally let go of his ear, crossing her arms in a huff. "I swear, you're just as reckless as Deklan," she muttered.
Brius grinned, leaning down to kiss the top of her head, much to her annoyance. "Relax, sis. I'm fine. And I brought you the best tea in Ethyros. That has to count for something, right?"
Myra couldn't stay mad for long, especially when it came to her favorite older brother. She sighed, rolling her eyes as she hugged the packet of tea close to her chest. "Fine. But next time, knock before you burst in here like a savage."
Brius chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Deal."
The siblings shared a quiet moment, with Brius admiring how much Myra had grown, though she still retained her playful attitude. Myra, despite her irritation, felt comforted by Brius's presence, glad to have her brother home safe.