"So brother raise another pint,
Rev up the engine and drive off in the night,
I'll still look out for you, no matter what you heard,
They can knock all of my doors down but I won't say a word."
— Brothers by Murder by Death
Past the borders of Cut Rock River. Aleksei had come here a fair amount, curious of the world beyond his home. Of course, Orren had bounded off into this unclaimed place many times before. He hadn't been the first though, and that left the eldest brother with a crooked grin whenever he thought about it. Their little sister, Karina, had stumbled out alone before, intentionally or not. Of course, it left him feeling a little guilty--what good was a brother if he couldn't protect his siblings? Rina couldn't see things very well, so what if something had snuck up on her? Aleksei would never forgive himself. He was simply thankful that she was okay when she returned.
Things had been quiet recently. Too quiet, even for him. He couldn't imagine how restless Orren was feeling. His younger brother had always been excitable and desperate to play, to try his luck ... sometimes it could be irritating, like when they were younger and receiving lessons, and other times it could be just what Aleksei needed and wanted. Nothing helped relieve stress and let out pent up energy than rough housing and chase. Despite the fact that they were older now, and playing wasn't as big a part of their lives, he still enjoyed the occasional scuffle with his brother.
Stretching lazily with a yawn, the first son lifted his head slowly as he scented the air. It was cold, his nose tingling as he inhaled. But he could smell Orren on the wind, and that left the prince grinning. Tilting his head back and calling out, he requested his siblings. Come on! His call was playful and inviting. Let's do something!
Whispering leaves & pointing branches will tell them where I'm lying