Emperor Murshekiel Asther Astarin had ruled with love beside his cherished first wife, Empress Lariette Roszen. But as months became a year and no heir was born, the court grew restless. Under pressure, and with urging of Chancellor Grey Camilius, Murshekiel agreed to a second marriage -- not of love, but of duty. Lady Semantha Camilius, cousin to the Chancellor, became his second empress.
Within the first year, Semantha bore a son.
"What shall we name him?" the emperor asked, joy and sorrow mingling in his voice.
"Xavier" said Semantha -- Meaning; the ruler.
"Roxail" said Lariette -- Meaning; the righteous, rising sun.
Murshekiel chose Roxail Asther Astarin. yet Semantha called him only Xavier, refusing the name that came from Lariette's heart.
Two years later, Lariette gave birth to a second prince -- DarmireRoszen Astarin, born early, frail, but deeply loved by the empire. The palace whispered of schemes, of hidden hands that hastened the birth, but nothing was spoken aloud.
Roxail and Darmire, though of different mothers, grew as brothers in soul. Until the day Roxail left at sixteen, seeking wisdom beyond the empire, leaving behind a tearful Darmire.
Now, four years later, Roxail returns. The palace is colder, its walls taller, its eyes sharper. As he steps from the carraige, the air heavy around him, a familiar voice breaks the silence.
"...Welcome back, Big brother."
At the top of the steps stands Darmire --smiling, waiting, arms open.
But Roxail's heart feels only the shapeless, formless cold of a home that no longer knows him.