[Joshua, in turn, relaxes his arm to allow Kazuya a comfortable spot before he tightens it briefly around his shoulders in a brief, but heartfelt, hug. It's a gesture that's become more natural over the months, and one that he relishes. He's not sure if he could ever get used to such shows of affection. He's not sure he wants to, if it means losing the way his heart flutters in a pool of warmth.]

[This is what Clive experiences every time Joshua so much as bumps against him. That protective, loving, brotherly instinct that, although shared regardless of who is older or younger, changes in subtle ways based on that role. Joshua is grateful to now experience both.]

To be fair, I've been training for the role since I was a boy.

Archduke rather than king, but there are enough similarities between the two.

[He pauses for a moment.]

If there is aught I can do to help, you need say only a word, and my time is yours.