Aragon noticed the young man's approach and, sensing the shift in the atmosphere, took a step back, putting distance between himself and Leanna. His expression hardened once more, the vulnerability he had shown a moment ago replaced by his usual stoic demeanor.
"Prepare your army," Aragon said, his voice cold and commanding, "and be ready at the front of the Deep Forest."
Without waiting for a response, he turned on his heel and strode away, his cloak billowing behind him. As he walked back towards the main garden where the other lords were gathered, he didn't spare a glance back at Leanna or Draaro. The moment of connection, whatever it had been, was gone.
