Taneaya's Emotion

Again and again, she was devastated by the stories she heard about her family. Taneaya had no idea that behind the seeming peace and prosperity, the kingdom also had a very dark and nasty side.

Taneaya was devastated by the fact that her eldest brother and the greatest person in her eyes, Prince Enid, was involved in a despicable crime. The prince, who was supposed to be an example and role model for his people, was involved in acts that violated the law and morality. A feeling of disappointment and heartbreak came over Taneaya as if the foundations of her beliefs about justice and royal dignity were shaken.

At that moment, Taneaya realized that reality does not always match what she imagined. Enid, whom she had admired and trusted, had a very dark side. 

Taneaya pondered and tried to find answers within herself. She wondered if there was any way she could clear her kingdom's name and bring back justice and honor. However, there was no clear answer in her mind. He also still questioned the veracity of the rotten bandit leader's story.

"Ah, I just remembered now. You are Lady Taneya, the fourth child of the House of de Wind, as well as one of the heirs to the throne, so it's only fitting that I feel familiar," Barpus said.

Kain pulled Taneaya away, otherwise, her anger would have peaked, especially when discussing her family. It was a sensitive subject for Taneaya.

"Tane, let's go, let Eran take care of the rest." Taneaya complied with Kain's order. "Control your emotions, he's just baiting you," Kain continued.

"You better shut up asshole!" Eran grumbled at Barpus. He pressed his dagger a little harder.

Barpus turned to Eran. "Hey, boy. I've heard something about that lady Taneaya," Barpus said in a slightly high tone.

Taneaya stopped her steps, she perked up her ears.

"She's a slave of Prince Dignus, her brother hahaha!!!" Hearing that, Taneaya felt her blood boil in anger. She felt a tightness in her chest, without a signal, Taneaya moved quickly. 

"That's right, she's a prostitute who serves Prince Dig every night..." Barpus didn't finish his sentence, his eyes widened, and his mouth opened wide with his tongue hanging out. 

The sword plunged right into Barpus' throat, blood splashed on the face of Taneaya who had bowed before him with a sharp look in her eyes. In an instant, the bandit leader was dead.

Eran who was nearby was still stunned at Taneaya's appearance, although part of his face was covered by his gray hair, he could see Taneaya's trembling expression closely.

"Tane..." Eran called, but Taneaya did not hear.

Eran continued to call out, until finally he came closer and grabbed Taneaya's shoulders. Eran felt her shoulders shaking violently. Eran slightly pushed Taneaya's body away from Barpus' corpse, then he lowered his head to peek at the girl's face.

Eran was shocked to see that Taneaya's expression looked terrified, her lips were trembling incessantly, and her teeth were chattering violently. Her tears were flowing freely but her mouth was silent.

That's when Kain approached them, realizing how shaken Taneaya was. Kain was also shocked, but he understood why Taneaya had become like that.

"Eran..." Kain called out, then he gave Eran the code, to immediately do what Kain was demonstrating. Without thinking, Eran grabbed Taneaya's small body that was still bowed and kneeled and hugged her.

They both tried to support and strengthen Taneaya. Kain wisely said, "Taneaya, what we are facing now is indeed difficult. But remember, we are not just the wind that blows by. We are the Band of de Sun, we will always fight together."

Kain added, "That's right. We've been through so much together. We are friends and brothers, and we always support each other. We must remain strong and resilient no matter what."

Eran continued to gently stroke Taneaya's back while burying the girl into his chest.

"I can't say anything else, but I'll say it again." Eran said softly then continued, "A man's heartbeat is the perfect sedative for a woman."

After a while passed and hearing Eran and Kain's words that continued to motivate her, Taneaya felt renewed strength. She realized that she was not alone. The Band of de Sun was her family, and together they could face anything.

Then Taneaya made a small wriggling movement, and Eran who knew what she meant released her embrace.

"Kain, Eran, thank you for your support," Taneaya said with teary eyes. "I...I'm sorry because during this mission I whined and cried a lot, it was very troublesome for you guys."

Kain smiled with relief, "It's okay, you're no trouble Tane. Besides, I also understand your situation, even Theo and I insisted on not letting you participate in this mission before," Kain explained trying to calm things down. 

"I'm sorry for my selfishness. For some reason at that time, I felt something was off, and it turns out that I was finally able to answer my curiosity. I don't know what to do," Taneaya said in a soft voice.

Eran took Taneaya's hand gently, trying to provide support, "We're here for you, Taneaya. We will support you no matter what decision you make."

Taneaya smiled weakly, feeling relieved to have friends like Eran and Kain who were always there for her.

Taneaya nodded, "Thank you, guys. I'm really lucky to have you guys right now."

"Never mind, the mission is over. We better get out of this place. Let's go." Kain commanded and then he moved on.

As Eran was about to stand up, he felt his shirt being pulled, he turned around and saw Taneaya looking at him embarrassed. 

"What's wrong Taneaya?" 

"Ummm..." Taneaya looked confused, then she let out a long breath. "Thank you for everything."

*****