The training grounds behind the Nexus Citadel were quiet this time of day, touched only by the gentle sound of wind rustling the grass and the distant hum of magic wards thrumming low within the stone walls. But Ethan and Trevor ignored all of that. No magical arrays, no mana in the air, no Grimoire of Order, no Soul Pulse, no fancy techniques.
Just two brothers.
Bare-chested, their breath steaming faintly in the cool Anbordian morning, both men stood in the dirt-ringed circle drawn into the earth. Their knuckles were taped, feet bare, bodies glistening with sweat. The only rules today were those of discipline and instinct.
Trevor bounced on the balls of his feet, his stance loose but watchful. "You sure you wanna go at it like this? Might ruin that pretty face of yours, Your Majesty."
Ethan smirked, brushing a strand of damp hair from his brow. "I've had worse. Besides, you've been mouthing off a little too much lately. Think it's time someone reminded you who's older."
