Fractured Bonds

The grand dining hall was quieter than usual. Lucian and Julian sat at the long table with their parents, King Xavian and Queen Morgana, and their older brother Theron. But unlike the usual banter-filled meals, tonight's dinner was marked by an uncomfortable silence.

Lucian picked at his plate, pushing the roasted vegetables around but never bringing any to his mouth.

Julian wasn't doing much better, cutting into his meat without actually eating it. Neither had the energy to pretend everything was fine, not anymore.

King Xavian noticed his twins' distracted behavior and exchanged a look with his wife. Queen Morgana, ever the observer, had seen the signs for days.

Lucian's once-vibrant laughter dimmed, and Julian's usual quick remarks had been reduced to absentminded nods. Now, neither seemed to have much interest in their meal.

Even their shared mischievous smiles had disappeared.