Alexander eventually stepped out of the tent, still wearing that cold, composed expression he used whenever he became the crown prince instead of the suffering boy Elion tormented during training.
His five retainers moved around him with far more discipline than they had shown during their flight from Haven.
Peter coordinated ration packs for the units being redirected, Gareth drafted messages to the nearby checkpoints in careful wording that revealed nothing important, Lukas helped inspect armour and shields for those joining the supply road reinforcement, Erian checked basic medical charms, and Darin prepared to leave with Zenovia and Aeron.
Elion watched them for a while and couldn't help smiling faintly.
"They're not completely useless," he muttered.
Alexander, who had somehow ended up beside him, gave him a tired look. "That is the nicest thing you've said about them."
"Well, it was heartfelt."
"It honestly sounded like an insult."
