The courtyard had not quieted.
If anything, the movement had only grown more deliberate.
Servants crossed from one end to the other carrying bundles of supplies. Horses were being led toward the gates, their tack checked and rechecked by attentive hands. The Southern council stood in clusters, speaking in low, efficient tones as routes and contingencies were finalized.
At the center of it all, Aya stood with Elex.
They had not moved far from where he had first called her aside. The world continued around them, but a small space had formed - unspoken, but clear - where their conversation held its own weight.
"You're not staying," Elex said.
It was not a question.
Aya faced him fully. "No."
Elex exhaled once, sharp and controlled, his gaze shifting briefly toward the gates where the first of the wagons had begun to line up.
"We should move forces north. Give the captains time to organize their troops," he said. "If Dane is positioning at the border, then-"
"No."
