The King's Gamma (#Wattys2024)

Fifty Seven

The tranquilizer used on the others did not last long, much like I knew it wouldn't. They weren't weakened by years of poison like Korain.

Strong yet weak, and I was the only one that understood the extent of this. I watched their activities and encouraged Korain like a 'good little wife' would, watching as he won many of the games. The other chosen had slowly but surely each tried to test their power on me. Even their physical abilities seemed not to work. Fire, shot at me from the side without any warning, sizzled out the moment it came close. Water dissipated. Earth crumbled. 

"She should see the elder." One of the men said. "Test her."

"We should have a competition. Korain can not keep her if none of us ever knew of her."

"Yes! He has had her for years and informed none of her or her abilities."

Lyon and Jacus were the only ones who seemed to not care as much about 'not having the invincible little female'.

I was seated between Korain and Lyon later, watching as the men shot arrows while riding their horses. When it was Korain's turn, Jacus took his place, successfully keeping the others from getting near. After watching the two the entire day, something had become clear. I sent Moon to fetch something nonsensical and ensured that Ses had his full attention on Korain before I turned to Lyon and signed towards him.

He didn't see it, so stomping his foot seemed to be the next best choice. Before he could make a sound, I signed at him again.

"How long have you and Jacus been together?"

Lyon stared open mouthed, unable to respond when Jacus looked over.

"What did she say?"

"We're not..."

"Do you honestly think I'm asking because I'm unsure that you are together?"

Lyon, the boistorous, loud and burly man, blushed beet red and looked away, unable to speak. Huffing, I turned my body to Jacus and wrote the same question on it, ensuring that no-one else could see the ink.

Jacus, on the other hand, had a similar reaction, only less exaggerated. He quickly grabbed the writing utensil and scribbled on it, 'How did you know?'

"Neither of you have wives. Neither of you seem to have an interest outside of each other and Korain who you have likely come to see as your own younger brother. You are both wearing the same bracelet that you are trying to desperately hide under random pieces of clothing."

He read the words and seemed stumped, unable to respond. I took the paper again. "I'm not intending on spreading this out to anyone, much less Korain. It should come from you and Lyon after all. I am just curious. It seems as if you have been together for a very long time. The bracelets are somewhat worn through."

Jacus burned the note on the brazier next to him before placing a hand on my head and smiling like a doting older brother.

"How about I adopt you as my sibling? That way I can help protect you against these mongrels?"

There was an audible inhalation of breath from the group I had drugged earlier and they seemed somewhat frightened at what had been said. I shrugged and nodded. It didn't really matter to me but Jacus seemed infatuated with the idea.

"Such a cute little sister. Tell me if Korain gives you trouble, okay?"

I nodded again, only for Lyon to come to life. 

"Are you intending to hit my brother?"

"Only if he bothers my little sister."

Lyon gaped at him.