"Nice armor, and what a nice silky hair—do you use aloe oil?" A sarcastic remark rang out from behind.
Caesar and Theo instinctively turned around, even though they already knew exactly who the voice belonged to. When Theo saw his brother approaching, a faint, amused smile tugged at his lips. "Thanks, I'd return the compliment, but you look like you were forced to attend your father's coronation against your will."
The newcomer, of course, was Peon. He wore a full suit of black and gold armor, but unlike Caesar's freshly polished ceremonial set, his was worn, battle-tested, and slightly scuffed in places, evidence of constant use. He wasn't even wearing the regal cloak designated for him. His hair was short, untamed, and unkempt, while a light beard covered the lower part of his face—at least, the part that wasn't marred by scars.