King Aldrich and King Lucien both became tense after hearing that their son had lost his memory. The doctor carefully explained how everyone should behave with Ethan. He told them not to force anything on him, not to remind him of the past again and again, and not to make him uncomfortable in his own home.
Ethan needed to feel safe, relaxed, and protected. The palace should not feel like a prison or a strange place to him. Most importantly, the doctor said they must give Ethan time—time to understand his surroundings and time to accept this new reality slowly.
That evening, the palace was unusually quiet. Kyle stood outside his father's chamber before finally speaking, "Father… you called me?" His voice was low and unsure. Aldrich nodded and asked him to come inside. Kyle's face looked tired, as if he had not slept properly for days.
When Aldrich asked about Ethan, Kyle hesitated. He admitted that these days he did not have the courage to go and check on his brother often. Seeing Ethan like this hurt too much. It was unbearable to watch his own brother look away, avoid eye contact, and stare out of the window as if Kyle did not exist.
Kyle's voice shook as he continued. He said that sometimes he questioned their decisions. Was it right to keep Ethan inside the palace? Was it right to protect him this way? Kyle explained that whenever he tried to talk to Ethan, Ethan did not respond.
He simply closed his eyes and stayed that way until Kyle left the room. That quiet reaction hurt more than harsh words ever could. It felt as if Ethan hated his presence, as if he did not want him near.
Lucien listened quietly, his heart aching with every word. Kyle added that even William was not allowed inside Ethan's room anymore.
Ethan refused to see him as well. Anyone who tried to enter was gently but firmly pushed away. The situation was becoming more difficult with each passing day. Ethan was alive, awake, and breathing but he was emotionally distant, locked inside himself.
After a moment, Kyle spoke again. He mentioned the Academy. An official invitation had already arrived. Both brothers were expected to attend. Kyle said honestly that he could not imagine going alone, leaving Ethan behind.
Ethan had always walked beside him. Going without him felt wrong. Kyle asked carefully if they should allow Ethan to go outside, even if only for a short while.
King Aldrich closed his eyes, deeply conflicted. He admitted that he did not know what the right answer was anymore. Every decision felt heavy and uncertain. Finally, he said that he would speak to Ethan himself first. Perhaps hearing a father's voice, without pressure or expectation, might help. It was the only path Aldrick could think of for now.
Later that night, King Lucien stood alone in the main hall of the palace. In front of him stood the Stone God, unmoving and firm. The stone had no face, yet it carried the faith of the entire kingdom. Flowers surrounded it, and the faint smell of incense filled the air. Lucien slowly knelt down, his knees touching the cold floor.
"Astra Core… please help us," Lucien whispered, his voice trembling. Tears slipped from his eyes as he prayed with devotion. He begged for mercy, for guidance, and for his son's peace. As a king, he had power over many things but as a father, he was helpless. And so, he prayed, hoping that the Stone God would hear a parent's broken heart.