Our Fates Are Joined

Chapter 1- Home

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I was awakened by a series of yelling and screams from outside. Curious, still in my nightly attire, I went downstairs and opened the front door to see who was causing such a disturbance.

When I opened the door, I was met with the sight of my two older brothers, Briar and Mount Stratis, sparring. They train twice as hard every time they're away from the Yuminian Castle. Knights that share a kinship have to stand by each other's side through their training regimens. Briar is already a Knight, but Mount is a trainee, which means Briar will have to see Mount through his training.

I walked outside, and Mount and Briar dropped their weapons, and ran over to me while I ran towards them. The end result being all of us on the ground, laughing, because Mount tripped over Briar's spear, causing a chain reaction.

Mount wrapped his arm around my neck, and rested his head on mine, watching the sun rise near our home in rural Yume.

This stretch of land we own was gifted to my parents as penance for their services in the Yuminian military. This area of the capital, Ashton, is the least populated, but houses the largest area of land. The more populated areas are closer to the castle, which is built into the sky to symbolize the sky never being the limit, but just crossing that fine line.

"It's been about three months since we've last spoken with you, Telfer. On our behalf, I apologize for making you wait for so long."

"It's quite alright! It wouldn't make sense for either of you to have any recreational time."

"We've been given a few days' rest from training, due to the arrival of Roy's comet tomorrow night. In fact it's one of the greatest phenomena for our generation is to witness."

I tilted my head. "Queen Rosemary gave you leisure time because of the comet?"

Mount nodded, and began fiddling with the grass.

Queen Rosemary is regarded as the one of the most peaceful rulers in our current time. Yume has a history of peaceful and levelheaded rulers, so Queen Rosemary isn't an exception. She has lived a life shrouded in mystery, so not many people are aware of her upbringing.

"She adores the comet more than anyone else. The day before we were given leisure time, she gave us a speech on how we shouldn't spend this time moping or being down. It's about spending time with those we care about."

Briar changed the subject. "So, brother." He began. "How is everyone?"

"They've been well. Father is preparing for the comet tomorrow, mother has finished her teachings for the year, and proceeds to teach the adults in her night classes. Chrysantha is still into pick-pocketing and I have finished my four years of school. I'm awaiting a response from General Andromeda to be admitted into my affiliations and role in the military." I say, looking back at the house.

Briar grinned. "This may come as a suprise to you, but I am now general of the Yuminian military."

I stared at him, in disbelief. "How?!" I said, still attempting to get a grip on the news I am being given.

"Well, General Andromeda said he saw potential within me, true leadership and valiance. So, he challenged me to a duel and if I won the title of general would be mine. If I lost well, nothing would be different than before."

Mount scratched his head. "I still don't understand how that works. Wouldn't you have to be approved by the council? Or the queen?"

Briar nodded. "Already taken care of. Queen Rosemary and her regal advisors came to watch the fray."

I had taken a good look at my older brothers. Mount has matured well since entering the Yuminian military. Before he joined, Mount was hyperactive, and always getting into trouble, while Briar always watched over him like a hawk.