Brotherly Care

The dim glow of dawn illuminated Alex's room as he stood near the window, inspecting the sword he had taken from the palace. The blade shimmered faintly in the morning light, a masterwork of craftsmanship that only the royal family could possess.

But it was also a dead giveaway of its origins. Alex needed it to look inconspicuous. That was where Rylus came in.

Rylus stood at the desk, his hands trembling slightly as he began the enchantment process. He glanced nervously at Alex, who was seated across from him, sharpening a dagger with slow, deliberate strokes.

"Do I really have to do this?" Rylus asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Alex looked up, his expression sharp and unyielding. "Yes," he said simply.

Rylus swallowed hard, adjusting his glasses. "I mean, it's just… Altering an artifact like this… From the royal family..."

Alex pointed the sword at him, "You specialise in illusion magic, so do it."