AN: This first chapter "Banishment" is rated K+ and can Stand Alone.
Prologue:
Banishment
Once, there was a powerful king. Though he reigned over plenty, he was unsatisfied with his fortune. For within the entirety of his vast kingdom, there was not one person who did not fear him. Eventually, a single thought entered his head: Why should I cause myself pain when their shoulders tremble or their voices quiver? If they choose to shake without just cause, why not give them something to fear? And such were his thoughts, until finally the darkness that had been left to fester overwhelmed him, and his heart became jagged.
The news of the king's growing loneliness came too late to the palace of his younger brother, Tsar Lunar (aka Manny). Desperate to rectify his older brother's wrongs, Manny assembled a group of four brave warriors. Together they fought against the self-proclaimed Nightmare King, and in doing so brought about a golden era.
No longer did the people lock their doors against the darkness of night, nor did they huddle around campfires for fear of passing shadows. Shoulders shook—not out of fear—but from laughter and young voices quivered with joy. The Dark Ages had finally ended. Once dull eyes shown with light as parents looked towards the future with hope, and the people were able to sleep soundly, again. Thus, the Guardians were formed, and the once feared king became forgotten—written off as a bad dream.
Only, he wasn't completely forgotten. For his younger brother still remembered him, and wished for his happiness; however, the former-king refused to admit he did anything wrong. Instead, he longed for the days when he reigned in terror. At least then he was acknowledged by everyone, and not just young ones who (regrettably) dubbed him "The Boogeyman."
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Because of his brother's stubbornness, Manny was forced to watch his brother from a distance. Until he learns how to care for another once again—not just for the fear his presence ignites—I cannot allow him to regain his power. And so, with a heavy heart, but good intentions, Manny resigned himself to only interfere in the direst of circumstances. Perhaps one day, Pitch, your heart will heal, and you will become whole again.
Until then...
Please, forgive me.
Constructive Criticism on: grammatical and/or spelling errors, pacing, characterization, plot development, and easily-readable format, is encouraged and welcome.