Chapter 188: Unexpected Reunion (1)

Orion stood frozen for a heartbeat, his mind reeling. Of all the people he expected to see in the palace, Jaxon was the furthest from his thoughts. Yet here he was, standing mere steps away, his eyes wide with equal disbelief.

Without hesitation, Orion bolted forward, his robes flowing behind him like a ripple of excitement. "Jaxon!" he exclaimed, throwing his arms around the man with a strength that belied his slender frame.

Jaxon caught him, staggering slightly under the force of the embrace but quickly recovering. His arms wrapped around Orion instinctively, holding him close as though afraid he might vanish.

"I can't believe it's you!" Orion said, his voice trembling with emotion. "I've missed you so much, big bro Jaxon!"

Jaxon's face softened, his usual stoic expression giving way to one of pure affection. "Orion," he said again, almost as if testing the name to ensure this wasn't a dream.