Chapter 23. From the Mirror

"Welcome, Emperor. The kingdom is yours, Your Majesty." 

Chief Kaius, brother to Emperor Vulcan and Paramount Chief of the kingdom of Nebulos, bowed deeply though his tone was cold and unfriendly. 

"Thank you… Brother. It is wonderful to be home after all these years." 

Emperor Vulcan managed to muster a weak smile. His love for his brother had not waned over the years but he could still sense his brother's feelings of disdain hidden under the cloak of respect and duty. 

Emperor Vulcan had been reluctant to host the engagement ceremony in Nebulos but with the urging of his advisors, he had relented. 

Now, his main goal was to try to heal the enormous wound in their relationship that had been festering for years. 

"Uncle," Daegal inclined his head downwards in greeting. 

"My Prince." 

An awkward silence reigned in the courtyard of the Star Castle till it was broken by Chief Kaius's steward. <