The news must have spread quickly, because before long, the Emperor himself came down from the castle, followed closely by Dican, both coming to welcome the returning Crown Prince.
The moment Celaus's eyes landed on his younger brother, his expression changed slightly.
He frowned.
"Dican…"
His sharp eyes moved over his brother from head to toe. He noticed immediately that Dican had lost weight. His once-bright blond hair had faded to a pale shade, and there was something strangely lifeless about his appearance.
"You've lost some weight," Celaus said, his voice carrying a trace of concern. "Have you been well, brother?"
Dican simply smiled and nodded.
"I'm good."
Celaus's brows drew together.
That answer alone was unusual.
The Dican he remembered had been overflowing with energy. He would have been jumping around, talking endlessly, teasing his brothers, or doing something completely ridiculous just to make everyone laugh.
