Ah, yes, I see.
* The Prince of Ice smiled with uncharacteristic warmth in his blood-red eyes, and he nodded in a knowing manner.
I think that I might understand your brothers' position. I, too, have two younger sisters that I endeavour to safeguard and to protect. Howe'er, much unlike yourself, they are indeed yet hatchlings; they have less than seven Seasons of age, as yet.
* Shard tapped one porcelain finger against his pale cheek thoughtfully.
I may again speak too freely, but you do not strike me as a pup, lady Nilla. I can sympathise all too readily with the concern of an elder brother for his younger sister, but this does not condone the action of keeping one against her will. After all, one matures most readily when one is allowed the freedom in which to grow. You seem most capable to me. Mayhap your brothers will soon come to recognise this capability within you as well.
* He laughed then, quietly, but his voice was no less rich with his musical Avian accent.
. . . although, being the eldest myself, I know all too well the difficulties associated with letting go. I may hold hope for your emancipation, my lady, but I do not forsee it coming without contest.
* Shard smiled at her apologetically.
I am very glad that I have been able to be a host to you for a time, to-night. I should not like to keep you, though, if you've the remainder of your evening left to enjoy. But I wonder . . . might I make but one last inquiry of you, afore you make your leave?