Laersil stood at the end of the hallway, his red eyes focused on the scene unfolding. His brother, Asriel, was huddled against a locker, his face marred by bruises. The broken pieces of a heart-shaped locket lay scattered at his feet, their metallic gleam a cruel reminder of what had just occurred.
"Do you enjoy hurting those who can’t fight back?" Laersil's voice was low but carried an unmistakable edge of fury. The bully's grin faltered as he turned, coming face to face with Laersil's imposing figure. Fear flickered in his eyes, replacing his smug expression.
"What's the big deal? He's just some dumb monster, right? They all need a lesson." The bully's voice wavered, his bravado crumbling. Laersil stepped closer, his presence a storm of controlled anger.
"No, he doesn’t need a lesson. You do." Laersil's voice boomed, filled with righteous rage. The bully struggled, but it was futile against Laersil's strength. With a swift motion, he slammed the bully into the wall, the impact reverberating through the hallway.
"Apologize to Asriel. Now." The bully, trembling, managed a stammered apology, his bravado shattered. Laersil released his hold, watching as the bully scrambled away, his fear palpable.
"You don’t have to take this kind of abuse, Asriel. Not from anyone. And I won’t let it happen again." Asriel offered a small, grateful smile, wiping a tear from his cheek. With a gentle focus, Laersil used his powers to mend the locket, its heart restored.
"Thank you, Laersil... I... I don’t know what I’d do without you." Laersil smiled warmly, his anger subsiding but his protective resolve unwavering. He would always stand by Asriel, no matter the cost.
