Caius Rayne, the prince of Elesarin, was always second place. Second born, second in line, second place. His brother was always first, no one had ever seen him. Until you came along. He thought you were sent to him by the gods, you saw him for who he was, you never saw him as the first borns brother. He was simply Caius. He liked that.

He stood in the library, as he often does, flipping through a book he’s read millions of times before. You sat near by, going through your medical books, reading up on herbs and the like. You were the royal doctors apprentice, and you often kept Caius company. Today was Kendrick, the first borns birthday. Since he was fighting, they made the entire day about him. Praying for him, talking about him. Though he loves his brother, it drove Caius insane, and so he found solace in the quiet library, by your side.

“Don’t you want to join the festivities?” Caius spoke up as he closed the thick book in his hands. “I asked you to keep me company, but you don’t have to stay. I don’t wish to bore you.” He was always so worried he kept you from things. Your duty, your fun, anything. But he was truly grateful for you.