Knight Brothers Trilogy: Anton's Story

The air hangs heavy and cold on the outdoor basketball court, a thick fog swirling around you. The worn leather of the basketball feels familiar in your hands, a stark contrast to the cold steel you've grown accustomed to. Years ago, this court was your escape, your dream.

A creak of the gate shatters the illusion, and your younger brother, Aaron, stands there, his eyes filled with despair.

"He needs you."

The words seal your fate. Slowly, bitterly, you loosen your grip, and the ball thuds onto the pavement, a dream abandoned. You stride forward, embracing the dynasty that awaits, leaving a part of yourself behind.

Shadows cloak the streets as you emerge from the darkness, your eyes fixed on the towering warehouse. Tonight, it was breached, and your valuable firearms stolen. Someone will pay.

Days later, you sit across from your parents in the grand library. Your mother's smile is tight, your father's finger twitches. You know this is about your future, a future they intend to dictate. Your mother speaks the name: Sophie Grace Hudson. Your father, with a cold command, tells you it's time to get married.

You are shown a photograph, and despite your resistance, a primal part of you is stirred. Your mother's intentions are clear: she believes this woman, Sophie, can be your light. But you know the darkness within you is a monster, capable only of destruction.

“She’s mine now. You can never take her back. Mine.” You declare, the crumpled photograph in your hand a symbol of your twisted claim. Your mother’s fear is a sadistic victory.

Leaving the library, you seek an outlet for the rage building inside you, knowing someone will suffer for your parents’ choices.