Hoshor Plains yesterday's been laid to rest

He watched his brother's expression carefully, half-wondering if he should take his own cues from it. Nathaniel still didn't quite know how he felt about his father's passing— a year ago, he wouldn't have cared at all. Now, though? It felt unfair. Nathaniel was silent for several moments before he decided on an answer, pressing closer to Mona without realizing it. Life goes on.
The former soldier was attentive as Sebastian recounted the recent events of his life. At the mention of Aviana, his ears perked. Aviana is here? His tone was more hopeful than he had intended. A beat later, he added: Of course I found Burke first. Again, his voice betrayed him; bitterness lurked heavily under his words. Nathaniel paused again, contemplating the rest of what his littermate had said.
It was perhaps most surprising to Nathaniel himself when he parted from Mona's side, moving forward to touch Sebastian's shoulder with his nose. He was stiff, awkward even with their familial bond— but sincere. You're not a fighter, but you're a survivor. I'm glad you made it through. Nathaniel told him quietly; after a few beats, he pulled away abruptly. Something ached fiercely in his chest now. He hated it. His next words, flat and detached, accompanied his retreat back to his firebird's side. Where is Morningside? He paused, wondering if he should offer to accompany his brother; his gaze drifted to Mona, then. Perhaps it was cold of him, but— Sebastian was a man grown. Nathaniel's firebird, on the other hand, was far more delicate. And prettier, but he was pretending that didn't factor in. Still... Will you be alright?