Torrent might be the king, but at family gatherings, they were a family like any other. At least Candy looked more relaxed. Gran was telling stories about when they were kids. He’d given his brothers strict instructions not to give him any shit. Not tonight. Not while Candy was here. The problem was that he’d asked them as a brother and not as the king so all bets were off. If they started in on him, it would make her uncomfortable.

* * *

Things were going well. They all laughed as Torrent’s grandmother recalled another story about one of her grandkids.

“The best story is of Tide, when he first found his dragon.”

Torrent turned to Candy. “Dragons don’t shift until we’re about twelve.”

Torrent’s gran laughed. She was remarkably beautiful. Her hair was snowy white. She looked like she had the same coloring as Torrent and Lake. Her white-blond hair had turned grey-white with age. Aside from the hair and maybe a look of wisdom in her eyes, she was still young looking. “Tide couldn’t wait to change. He used to practice every day.”

“It was so funny. He’d meditate and actively try and bring on the change.” Lake laughed.

“Well, one day”—the older lady continued— “he managed to somehow get it right, only, it didn’t go quite as planned.” She turned and whispered to Candy. “The process should not be rushed or forced.”

Storm laughed. “No it shouldn’t.”

“You wouldn’t even remember,” Lake said. “You were too young.”

“I do remember.” Storm pulled a face of irritation. “How could I forget something like that?” He was the only brother with brown hair. He had the same pale blue eyes. They all did, including Torrent’s grandmother.

“He shifted but only got half way.” Torrent chuckled.

The older lady nodded. “He had a long tail, wings instead of arms and a whole lot of scales. Everything else was still very human.”

Candy covered her mouth with her hand and laughed. “I can picture it.”

“No need, dear.” The older lady winked at her. “I have pictures. He was like that for a day or so before finally changing back. Come for tea and I’ll show them to you.”

“I don’t even want to know what pictures those would be, Gran.” Tide walked in. He strode over to his grandmother and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Although I can guess.” He looked up at her. His blue eyes filled with humor. “Candy.” He smiled. “It’s good to see you.”

“You too.”

Torrent growled.

“Relax, brother.” Tide gave Torrent a slap on the back. “I like my intestines where they are… thank you very much.”

“Ah.” Rain, gestured to the table. “The first course is being served. Please try and behave boys.” She looked at each of them in turn. “No swearing or fighting.”