[uncledaddy]

At six years old, Randy VIII's gym training was increased and his father would regularly question him about his feelings regarding the fights he got into. By eight, there was talk of possible involuntary military induction. Randy VIII wasn't sure just what that meant for him yet, but as he had always wanted to be a fighter, he was hardly displeased by the idea.

[Red Lion]

Seven was rather anxious about all of this and one night he plucked up his courage and approached his father, "What's gonna happen with my baby brother?"

[uncledaddy]

"He will be inducted into the military, just like most other warrior-class," Randy explained simply. "As he seems more aggressive than most, however, he requires extra monitoring and if things continue as they have, the military training will likely occur regardless of his wishes, for his own safety and that of others."

[Red Lion]

"...I can't go with him can I? I...I can't keep him safe anymore?" Seven asked, his blue eyes full of despair. It wasn't even really a question, he had seen how Eight's behavior had changed and how much harder it was getting to keep him out of trouble, it was getting clearer and clearer to Seven that at some point he'd have to let his brother go and see other people looking after him. Maybe there would even be a day when Seven wasn't needed...or wanted anymore.

[uncledaddy]

Randy's expression softened as he sensed Seven's concerns and he pulled him in for an embrace. Things will change, said the sentiments that he shared with Seven mentally, but you do not need to worry about that.

[Red Lion]

"Daddy...how come Eight is different?" asked Seven as he returned his father hug.

[uncledaddy]

"For the same reason any of us is what he is," Randy replied. "Biological factors in place during fetal development determine class, you know all of that." It was clear that he didn't really want to discuss his concerns about Randy VIII's particular class with Seven, at least not yet.

[Red Lion]

Seven wasn't fooled, he knew Randy was withholding something and he gave his father a scrutinizing look tinged with just the slightest bit of disappointment, "That wasn't what I meant," for his age Seven was very observant and despite being calm and quiet he was more aware and perceptive than his brothers had been at the same age.

[uncledaddy]

Randy sighed. "I know that," he said simply. "It is nothing too worrying, but I do not wish to make any direct statements until I am sure."

[Red Lion]

Seven's frown deepened, "But he is different....isn't he?" he insisted.

[uncledaddy]

Randy responded with a single nod. There was no getting around it, though it would be another two to three years before a final assessment would determine whether Randy VIII was anything beyond a particularly aggressive warrior-class.

[Red Lion]

Seven's face fell, "It makes me so sad that I can't take care of him anymore,"

[uncledaddy]

"You are still his brother, and he will no doubt continue looking up to you," Randy assured him. "You may not always be able to look after him, but if you are there when he needs you, then you are doing the best you can." He smiled faintly, though his ears drooped and it was apparent that the words were just as much for himself as for Seven.

[Red Lion]

Sensing this Seven gave his father a kiss, "Yes, Daddy, thank you," he said solemnly.

[uncledaddy]

Randy gave him a pat and sent him on his way.
"What were you and Dad talking about?" asked a curious Randy VI as Seven entered the hall.

[Red Lion]

"We were talking about Eight," said Seven, not wanting to reveal to his brother everything that had transpired.