As the laughter mellowed and the garden lights danced into twilight, a series of refined footsteps echoed through the grand hallway.
All heads turned toward the archway.
There, dressed in deep royal violet robes embroidered with subtle golden patterns, stood the third sibling—a figure exuding both nobility and mischief. His hair was neatly tied, a ceremonial fan in one hand, and a scroll case slung over his shoulder. A small squad of attendants trailed behind him, looking utterly exhausted.
With a raised brow and a small amused smile, he said, "Ah, I see the Calvier clan is already in chaos."
In perfect synchronization, all six siblings, despite their prestige and rank, dropped into an exaggerated and dramatic pose—one knee bent, arms extended.
"We greet the Great Minister of the Royal Court, Third Brother, whose words sway empires and whose fan hides a thousand schemes."
Even Taryn joined in, stifling a laugh.
The third paused dramatically, fan half-open, then burst out laughing. "Hahahah! You fools. You never change."
He stepped forward and ruffled Taryn's hair. "And you… my little miracle. You've grown."
Taryn smiled. "And you still act like you run the world."
"Well," the third replied with a mock-sigh, "someone has to while you're busy being adorable."
The family gathered around him, and the air filled with banter and warm jests. Their parents stood side by side, eyes quietly watching their children, each so different yet so bonded.
After a bit more teasing and storytelling, the third finally said, "Ah yes, I nearly forgot. I bring a gift—fit for our blooming Seventh."
He signaled, and one of his attendants stepped forward holding a sleek crimson scroll bound with jade rings.
"This," the third explained, "is a copy of the Courtly Movement Technique. It's not only graceful and elegant, but it also teaches the art of evasive footwork, illusions in movement, and even minor bursts of speed. It's a favorite among spies… and diplomats."
He winked. "And maybe clever little brothers destined to confuse their enemies and charm the world."
Taryn's eyes widened. "This… this is incredible."
"You'll need it," the third said, growing a touch serious. "Court, Sect, or Battlefield—the world won't go easy on you."
Then, with a grin, he added, "But with your brothers and sisters around? You'll never face it alone."
The family, complete now, stood under the twilight sky—laughter echoing, stories flowing, and gifts of love exchanged not just in items, but in every moment they shared.