Deneve couldn’t keep the smile off her face as she watched King Bareeds and Sirare walking toward her. She kept her countenance regal until they entered the privacy of the yurt she shared with Barhan. Then it seemed all bets were off as she immediately squealed, pulling both the boys into her arms. “I missed you guys so much! I’m so glad you’re safe!”

King Bareeds giggled at her exuberance and hugged her tightly back, as did the quieter Sirare. Barhan seemed amused by the scene. He gave a small smile as he watched. While the King, Sirare, and Deneve got caught up with each other, Barhan found himself grinning at their sibling-like relationship. 

Soon though the conversation turned to more royal matters, King Bareeds and Deneve started to discuss how to deal with Neruda Shen. 

Sirare quietly gestured to Prince Barhan. Nodding, Barhan followed Sirare outside. “While they figure that out, I thought we could have a chat,” Sirare said.

Barhan was surprised by the maturity of this child when he spoke, but something about him was different, older than his appearance would suggest. “What’s on your mind?”

“You care for her,” Sirare stated without blinking an eye.
 
Barhan said nothing as he realized this child had laid his feelings bare. He did care about Deneve. In fact, he was enamored with her. She could be the one who could stand at his side and be a powerful ally.

“I am here just to warn you for her sake,” Sirare explained. “She can’t stay here. This world is wrong for her. If she stays too long, she will become an embodiment of it. She will be trapped here.” Barhan didn’t know what to say. He was startled by the Seer’s words. Sirare gave him a thoughtful look before a smile graced his face. “You will do the right thing, just as I have. I shouldn’t have worried.”

Barhan was even more surprised at Sirare’s admission. Sirare was in love Deneve. He realized that although Sirare looked to be a child, he was actually much older. The child… no man kept his feelings hidden but was looking out for Deneve’s happiness. Barhan nodded at Sirare with respect.

“We should go see how they want to deal with the threat of Neruda Shen,” Sirare noted, looking toward the doorway.