The night ended quietly after the feast.
One by one, his family dispersed, warmth lingering in the hall like the faint glow of dying embers.
"Tomorrow," Azariah had told him, slapping him on the shoulder hard enough to rattle his bones.
"You'll rise early. We hunt at dawn."
His father's grin had been wide, teeth flashing like a beast's, his crimson eyes gleaming with anticipation.
"It should have been done when you turned twelve, but you vanished. I won't let you delay any longer. Be ready, and don't you dare insult me by bringing those soft Empire daggers."
With that, the Patriarch had left, his heavy steps echoing down the hall like drumbeats.
Ellie had scampered after him, waving eagerly.
"See you tomorrow, big brother!"
His mother had been the last to depart.
Diana kissed his forehead, brushed back his silver hair, and whispered,
"Don't get hurt. And if he pushes you too hard… remember, you are my son before you are his heir."
