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Chapter 21 - Recovery and Praise

A door creaked, and their father stepped in, calm and collected. The swords were sheathed, but the quiet strength in his posture filled the room.

"They're both awake," he said simply, his voice carrying the weight of the fight from before. "Physicians have treated your injuries. You're safe, for now."

Prithvi's throat tightened. He reached out instinctively, brushing his fingers over Aarav's arm. His brother's eyes opened fully and met his, a faint smile forming.

"You… you're alive," Prithvi whispered, voice cracking.

Aarav's lips twitched. "I told you… I'll always be here. Even when things look hopeless."

For the first time, Aarav's eyes softened entirely. The tension, the faint jealousy he had once held toward Prithvi, was gone. Hearing his younger brother face danger and command magic so fearlessly had changed something inside him.

"You… you were incredible," Aarav admitted, his voice quiet but sincere. "You're… stronger than me, Prithvi. I… I'm proud of you."

Prithvi blinked, heart swelling at his brother's praise.

Their father's gaze softened slightly, but the hint of steel in his eyes remained. "Rest. Both of you need strength. The forest and its dangers are far from done with you."

Later, Amma entered the room, her face lighting up at the sight of her son's safe. "Oh, my brave boys," she murmured, brushing a hand over Prithvi's hair. Relief and pride glimmered in her eyes.

By the afternoon, villagers had gathered outside the hut, bringing gifts of food and warm words of thanks. They praised both brothers for their courage, their voices full of awe and respect. Prithvi's heart thrummed at their admiration, but he kept his gaze on Aarav, who now walked beside him with a newfound respect.

As the day settled into evening, Prithvi approached his father. "Father… will you teach me swordsmanship? I want to be strong like you, to protect everyone."

His father shook his head gently, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Prithvi… your path is different. You already have a gift that no blade can match. Focus on your magic — master it, and you will be stronger than any swordsman."

Prithvi's shoulders slumped slightly, but he nodded. His father's words carried wisdom, and he understood that his journey was only beginning.

Holding Aarav's hand once more, Prithvi watched the sun dip below the horizon, the forest outside calm for now. Danger still lurked beyond the trees, but together, he knew they would face whatever came next.

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