She had always known their stepmother was cruel, but seeing Violet hurt brought that truth into sharp focus. It felt different when the pain was visible, a tangible sign of the ongoing torment they lived with. Violet's wide eyes searched for reassurance. Starfania placed her hand on her sister's shoulder, a silent promise that she wouldn't let their stepmother get away with this. As she carefully tilted Violet's chin upward, catching her gaze. Her eyes sought to convey what words couldn't: that she was safe, that she wasn't alone, and that they would be by her side. Her tear-streaked face still bore the remnants of her anguish, but there was a flicker of trust in her eyes—a glimmer of hope that she might finally let herself believe in the promise of safety. Slowly, her tension eased, and her trembling subsided as she let out a shaky breath. When her lips curved into a faint, hesitant smile, Starfania felt a sense of relief.
Aeron, his anger softened into compassion, knelt down and wrapped his arms around Violet, holding her as if his very presence could shield her from the world. The two stayed locked in that embrace, their bond unspoken but profoundly clear. Starfania took a step back, giving them the space they needed, and watched as Violet's trembling lessened in his arms.
" This is my fault. I failed as a brother. " Aeron said, his voice laced with guilt and frustration. Violet shook her head slowly, her voice soft but steady. " It's not your fault, brother. "
Aeron tightened his grip, as if trying to transfer his strength to her. He could feel the weight of her pain, heavy like a storm cloud, and desperately wished to lighten it.
"I should have seen the signs," he murmured, his brow furrowing with regret. Violet pulled back slightly to meet his gaze, her eyes filled with understanding. "You can't blame yourself for something that was beyond your control."
Starfania took a deep breath, her heart aching for both of them. She stepped closer, gently placing a hand on Violet's shoulder.
"We all make mistakes. What matters is how we choose to move forward," she said, her voice calm and reassuring. Aeron released a shaky sigh, wiping away the tears threatening to spill from his eyes.
"But this hurts so much. I want to protect you," he confessed, his voice cracking with emotion. Violet offered a small smile, the kind that could light up the darkest moments. "And I know you will, because you care. That's what makes you a good brother."
The warmth of their connection filled the room, momentarily drowning out their worries. Together, they faced the uncertainty ahead, knowing they would navigate it as a family.
Starfania observed from her spot, leaning against her dragon Atlas. The sibling parted ways at a slow, deliberate pace, their hands still clasped together as though reluctant to let go. Their bond was tangible, a testament to the love and resilience they shared. Atlas let out a soft, snorting sound, and she couldn't help but smile at the dragon's gentle demeanor. Drogo, ever attuned to the emotions of his owners, approached them with a steady grace. Lowering his head, he nuzzled each of them affectionately, his presence a living emblem of their unshakable connection. Starfania eyes caught the outstretched hands of Aeron and Violet, reaching toward us with inviting smiles. Their faces shone with a sense of renewal and hope, a reflection of the newfound belief that together, they could overcome anything. Starfania felt a warmth spread through her chest. With a playful flick of his tail, Atlas shifted beside her, urging her to take a step closer to the pair. The dragon's eyes sparkled, mirroring the excitement brewing in Starfania. She felt the gentle rumble of his heartbeat, a calming rhythm that steadied her racing thoughts. It was a reminder that she was not alone in this, that they all were united in their purpose. Memories of their shared laughter, their late-night talks, and dreams woven under the stars flooded her mind. Yet this was not an ending; it was a new beginning.