Dave's Family...

There was a huge arch on top of a pair of large towering iron gate. The family name Winchester's was written in Bold gold letters.

"Are you the son of Robert Winchester?" Irene asked in surprise!!! Being the daughter of duke, she had known the names of the famous families of the whole Winden region.

Dave started at Irene's words, " What? Yes.... yes I was from Winchester family. And yes, I am Robert's son."

The guards at the gate were curious to see six men on top of the war horse and a carriage. One of the middle aged guards came to them and asked their purpose of visit.

Dave took a deep breath and greeted the guard. Hello Dennis, its been more than 5 years since I saw you." At these words, the guard was startled, then he squinted at the person who spoke.

"David... is that you lad? It is you.... Dave" The man was overjoyed. He came running towards Dave who had already got down from his horse, and hugged him.

"I missed you so much lad. How are you doing? Where had you been for so long." Dennis asked him.

Dave smiled, " I was at Winden City and you can say, had been around the kingdom as a part of my training since past four years."

"Lad, you had grown up so much, I bet no one can recognize you now. Come in, come in. Are these your friends?" Dennis asked curiously.

"They are my family now Dennis. The one I was always craving for." Dave said with a warm smile on his face.

Dennis beamed at them all and bowed deeply. "Thank you all for being with Dave. You know, he is such a sweet and silent boy. An introvert and always stayed alone." Everyone started snickering at this, confusing Dennis.

"Never mind them, How is father doing?" Dave enquired.

"Ah lad, he is bedridden for almost an year now. His health deteriorating day by day since past few weeks."

"Lets go in guys." Dave took the lead with a resolute look.

After taking the horses to the stable, they entered the huge mansion. It was like a miniature palace.

The guards and maids were taken aback by the newcomers. While they didn't recognize Dave, they were struck by the aura of the group. Their synchronized movements and noble presence gave the impression of young masters from a noble family. The girls exuded elegance and regal grace.

Agnes, Dave's stepmother, entered the living room to greet them. She was an elegent middle-aged woman of medium height, fair and slender.

She was astonished to see them all looking so dignified and commanding. Before she could utter a word, Dave bowed and addressed her, "Hello, Lady Agnes. It's me, David."

Her mouth fell open in disbelief. It took her a moment to collect herself and respond, "Dave, is it... is it really you? You've grown so much!" Dave nodded in confirmation.

Awkwardness hung in the air once more. "Please, come in. Robert wants to see you before..." Her expression shifted to sadness as she trailed off.

Dave nodded and invited the others to join him in seeing his father.

"Brother Dave!" A boy of around twelve rushed excitedly towards them. He froze in his tracks upon seeing the imposing stature of the six boys.

Dave's first genuine smile since arriving in Solaris spread across his face. "Hey, Tom. You've grown up so much." He stepped forward and tousled Tom's hair.

"Everyone, this is my dear brother, Tom." Smiles and nods greeted the introduction.

Tom hugged Dave tightly. "Brother, please don't leave me. I beg you." Tears welled up in Tom's eyes.

Dave, usually nonchalant, found himself shedding tears that day. Despite his usual demeanor, his stepbrother held a special place in his heart. Tom loved Dave more than he loved his own mother, and for Tom, Dave was always a top priority.

"Let's go meet father," Dave said, placing an arm on his brother's shoulder and guiding him along with the others. Agnes followed them in an uncomfortable silence.

As they entered the room, they were shocked by the condition of Dave's father.

He lay on the bed, unmoving. His body resembled that of a withered flower, slowly fading away.

"What... what happened to him?" Dave asked, his voice strained.

Alan and Chris examined Robert's condition from a distance but didn't approach him.

"He fell down the stairs and broke his spine in multiple places. The healers said even his nerves are damaged, beyond repai" Agnes explained briefly. Tears started to trickle down her eyes slowly.