𝐅𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍; 𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐍

20

Over the course of three weeks, the harsh grip of winter gradually loosened its hold, bowing to the gentle embrace of spring. The world came alive with the vivid colors of newly blossomed trees and delicate flowers. The morning breeze, crisp and refreshing, announced the much-awaited homecoming of Eren's brother Zeke and father to the castle.

Eren's eyes brightened as he admired the beauty of spring. The trees were adorned with fresh foliage that covered the ground in a soothing green hue. He gazed out of the window, mesmerized by the splendid sight. Eren remained fixated on the view for half an hour, filled with wonder. "At last, a season that won't scorch my skin or numb my fingers," he murmured with a grin. Spring will always hold a special place in his heart. Eren laughed as a humble knock was heard at his, pulling his attention away from his thoughts and now toward his chamber doors.

"The door is open, enter." With that, a young servant, the same servant who had given Eren his scrolls, stood before him with a smile. It has been revealed that the name of the servant was Marco.

"Your highness! Its great to see you in good spirits. Your father and brothers carriage are arriving to the castle gates soon you best get ready!" The servant stated with a smile and bowed. Eren nodded in response.

"Thank you, Marco. . . though I must ask, usually Venus is the one to wake me around these times, has something come up?" Marco stood in thought for a moment and shook his head.

"Ah, last I remember seeing her, she was with Ms. Hilgred down by the town square. If you'd like I could have a knight escort her back to the castle if she is needed?"

"That won't be necessary; I am not one to be foul-mouthed with change. For the most part, of course." Eren chuckled and looked at his closets. "I will be ready soon; let everyone know I am coming."Once Marco nodded in agreement, he quietly departed from the room, leaving Eren alone with his thoughts. Despite feeling fatigued from the tiring workload his father placed on his shoulders, Eren was determined to make the most of their homecoming and settle back into life within the castle walls with his estranged family.

After taking a few minutes, Eren finished getting ready to meet his brother and father. He wore his finest royal attire and stood straight, trying to muster the confidence to face them. "I can do this," he told himself, looking at his reflection in the mirror. However, a heavy sigh escaped his lips as he quickly realized his nerves were getting the best of him. Eren strode out of his chambers, descending the steps that led to the castle's entrance with purpose. Two carriages pulled up just as he arrived, and he ascended the steps to greet his brother and father as they disembarked. Eren wore a severe expression, determined to ensure that this meeting went smoothly and without incident. When Zeke and Grisha Yeager emerged from the carriage, Eren greeted them with a courteous bow.

"Welcome home, Zeke, father..." Eren continued to speak calmly as he put his hands together. Zeke's face was beaming with happiness, which prompted his father to nod approvingly. Eren watched the scene with curiosity.

"Eren! You've grown your hair longer! Looking like a true hobo it seems." Zeke laughed and patted him on the back. "Acting all formal with your brother, what for? We're family!" Eren's eyes widened at Zeke's comment.

"Hobo? Do I look like rubbish to you?" Eren's nerves finally died down as he felt mocked by his own brother and laughed in return. "Do I truly look like a hobo? Seems you still don't have a filter you blond ape!"

"Ape!? You are one to talk, with how hairy you are, perhaps you should look in the mirror. Shaving is a possibility."

"Bite your damn tongue, at least I can grow hair. Your yapping mouth always seems to be a curse to the family." Eren's father, the king, simply watched the feral exchange between the two brothers. It seems nothing really has changed.