#sebastion ♛ || drystan baratheon

[xfulminare]

with drystan baratheon @gcldenblades

There were few things in life he loved more than the feeling of being idolised, never finding the pedestals that others placed him on to be too lofty or precarious, instead choosing to enjoy being held above all others. no pressure was felt when he knew he never simply met standards but exceeded them - how could he not when he constantly found new ways to achieve what was expected? effortlessly the people's prince. "little brother." there would have been fondness between them simply because of their shared father but it had only increased through the years when he had been relied upon time and time again. being needed and appreciated was always a sure-fire way into his affections. reassuring hand was placed on the younger stag's shoulder, preparing to impart crucial advice. "now you remember what we talked about, don't you? if you keep that lance tucked in tighter you might almost be as good as me."

[xfulminare]

"you flatter me but they do say flattery gets you everywhere." at least it never ceased to earn people his attention. fond arm was slung over the younger baratheon's shoulder, preparing to lead them both in a stroll. he had no set destination in mind, had simply tired of being in one place too long. besides, it would do everyone some good to see the two princes in happy unity. "perhaps it is but it will not always be - your time will come, drystan, I am certain of it." brief sincerity was quickly spoiled by the cocky half grin that lit his features, words that followed only furthering to undo the glimmer of genuine reassurance. "you have me as a mentor, after all." words said as though it should be obvious his sibling could do nothing but triumph under his guidance. "but you already have glory of your own, brother, it was you who almost triumphed with the wrestling." pride might have smarted but eventually he had chosen to see it as a good thing - his siblings were capable of showing the strength of their house just as much as he was.

drystan flashed his brother a grin, the very picture of admiration and sibling adoration, a mask he'd mastered over the years. "sebastion, you know just standing next to you makes me feel like i've already won half the battle," he began, his tone light, almost teasing, yet laced with the practiced undertone of reverence he knew sebastion lapped up like fine wine. "but you're right, as always. the joust, though? that's your realm, brother. the pressure to impress you—and father—it's immense. i think i'll stick to the horse riding this time around. not that i'll ever be in your league, but perhaps you could spare a sliver of your boundless glory for your little brother?" his words were perfectly pitched to stroke sebastion's ego, yet internally, drystan couldn't help but roll his eyes. the performance was necessary, a part of the long game drystan was all too aware he was playing.