A Day in the Gardens: Dad Jokes and Sibling Suffering

The gardens of Shaernaen Castle were in full bloom, a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances that delighted the senses. Evelyn Mordos strolled through the neatly manicured paths, her red eyes sparkling with mischief. Beside her walked her father, Eremon Mordos, the ever-dignified king, who had graciously set aside his royal duties for a rare day of leisure with his daughter.
Rin, the studious and often sleepy younger sister, had brought a book to read under the shade of a sprawling oak tree. She was deeply engrossed in her alchemical studies, the world around her fading into the background as she lost herself in the complexities of potions and spells.
Evelyn nudged her father playfully. "Father, I've got a joke for you," she said, barely containing her laughter.
Eremon raised an eyebrow, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Oh, do share, Evelyn. I could use a good laugh."
Evelyn took a deep breath, preparing herself. "Why don't wizards use maps?"
Eremon pretended to ponder the question, his emerald eyes twinkling. "I don't know, why?"
"Because they prefer to follow their own path!" Evelyn exclaimed, bursting into giggles.
Eremon chuckled heartily, the sound rich and warm. "That's a good one, Eve. Very clever."
Rin, sitting nearby with her book, sighed deeply. She loved her family dearly, but the barrage of dad jokes was not something she had anticipated when she chose this spot to read. She glanced up, giving them a look of pained amusement before returning to her book.
Evelyn, noticing Rin's reaction, couldn't resist continuing. "Hey, Father, do you want to hear another one?"
"Absolutely," Eremon said, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
"Why did the sorcerer break up with his girlfriend?" Evelyn asked, her grin widening.
Eremon shook his head, already smiling. "Why?"
"Because she was too spellbinding!" Evelyn delivered the punchline with gusto, laughing as she did.
Eremon laughed along with her, the sound echoing through the garden. "You have taken after me, Eve."
Rin groaned softly, sinking further into her book as if hoping it would shield her from the onslaught of humor. "I'm dying on the inside," she muttered under her breath.
Evelyn, overhearing her, leaned over and gave Rin a playful poke. "Oh, come on, Rinnie. You know you love it."
Rin looked up, her red eyes filled with feigned exasperation. "I love you, Evelyn but these jokes... they're going to be the death of me."
Eremon placed a comforting hand on Rin's shoulder. "It's all in good fun, Rin. Laughter is good for the soul."
Rin couldn't help but smile at her father's words, despite her best efforts to remain serious. "I suppose you're right. But please, no more jokes for today. I need to study."
Evelyn laughed and gave her sister a quick hug. "Alright, alright. No more jokes. For now."
They continued their stroll through the gardens, the air filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the gentle rustling of leaves. Despite her initial reluctance, Rin found herself relaxing, enjoying the serene beauty of the gardens and the comforting presence of her family.
As they walked, Eremon shared stories of his adventures, and Evelyn listened with rapt attention, occasionally making witty comments that drew more laughter from her father. Rin, though pretending to be absorbed in her book, couldn't help but smile at the sound of their laughter and the warmth it brought.
The day passed in a blissful blur, filled with stories, jokes, and the simple joy of being together. For Evelyn, it was a perfect day, one that reminded her of the strength and love that bound their family. And for Rin, despite her initial suffering, it was a day of quiet contentment, spent in the company of those she loved most.