Burden (2)

Freya listened to Aether's swift explanation wide eyed. So much had happened since this morning already? She could hardly believe it. Yes, she knew he wasn't lying.

"So, I will check on Pearl, and see if Uria is back. I want you to go back to your room. Mara, please stay, you as well, Freya."  Aether's calm and cold words sent a shiver down Freya's spine.

"What?" Iris exclaimed in shock. Her face turned red with anger as she clenched her fists. "I am not going to hide in my room. I am next in line in case my father and aunt are not around. I'm not letting you-"

Aether closed his eyes and took a deep breath as Iris continued speaking. "Iris Yotsura!" He shouted all of a sudden, startling everyone in the room. Freya flinched, and instinctively took a step back.