“Mother, what does ‘times of tumult’ mean?” Declan asked
“It means a world with many challenges, my dear,” Chloe responded.
Declan’s face crinkled in confusion. “And what kind of world is that?”
Anna yawned, nestled comfortably in Damien’s lap. Damien, who had thus far been observing silently, tenderly stroked the girl’s brow and explained, “It is a world where those in power neglect their responsibilities.”
Declan blinked his bright blue eyes thoughtfully. “Then I suppose no heroes will emerge from this world.”
“Why do you think that?”
“Because Anna and I are committed to our studies.”
Chloe found herself surprised once again by how much Declan’s manner of speech reminded her of Damien.
“Yes, we spend all our days studying and learning swordsmanship,” Anna said sleepily as she yawned. The twins shared a bond that surpassed even their parents’ expectations. It was Declan and not their nursemaid who would read to Anna until she fell asleep.
