out of the ashes - kavi, bergamont, erebor

[Erebor]

We are at war. There will be scars.

It has never occurred to him that he might be a…curiosity, so to speak. But he doesn't have long to think on his uncle's surprise, because it's only a few moments and Kavi is speaking. The boy offers him a small smile in response; he's still learning the hang of being charming, really. "I am lucky." he says, agreeing completely. Anyone would be lucky to live where he lives, cradled by the Chamber and raised by two of its finest. Not that it's exactly a competition at the moment – there's so few of them.

His mother and his uncle banter a bit, and the boy takes careful notes. He appreciates the way that Kavi seems to decorate his words, the way he has small smiles and quick wits and warmth. Erebor is not interested in that kind of warmth himself; it's not his thing, the joviality, but he sees it as a tool that he can use. Already, despite being almost unbelievably young, he's starting to think strategically. Yes, perhaps he will one day surpass Straia, but if he does, it will be in large part because of his breeding and upbringing. He is a curious child, always eager to learn, and above all eager to throw everything he has into his work for his home.

Truly, he was born to be the prince.

Bergamot approaches him then, delicately reaching out his nose, and the boy returns the gesture without hesitation. Family, Bergamot is family, and family should always be friends. He smiles, a small smile, but as genuine as he gets. "The pine forests." he breathes, looking at his cousin's coat. He's rarely seen them looking so magnificent in his lifetime. They're still regrowing, still recovering from the intense damage that had been done to them when the disasters had ripped across Beqanna. "You're very talented, cousin." he says, his voice impressed, meaning every word. He is not jealous of the boy, jealousy is not and never will be something that he feels, but he is glad to have someone with those talents in the family. It could only be a benefit, after all.

"Where are you living, cousin?" his voice is cool, but not harsh. He hasn't quite mastered the art of being charming to one's family, and perhaps he never will. Perhaps he, like his mother, will be charming when it's necessary. After all, it's just so efficient that way.

Erebor

Native Prince of the Chamber

warship x straia

Ending this thread probably makes sense. But then I wrote a reply anyway so I guess just pay no attention to me