Laden stood motionless, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he tried to grasp the enormity of the moment. His gaze flicked from Aria's comforting presence to Adams, to Lovigary and Lokk, who watched him with a mix of curiosity, disbelief, and…something deeper. His throat tightened.
The wind stirred faintly, carrying with it the smell of earth and battle. Laden's fingers twitched as he slowly clenched them into fists, releasing them just as quickly. He swallowed, the weight of unspoken words building inside him. His eyes, still wet with the remnants of tears, landed on his sons first—their hardened expressions hiding the hurt and confusion beneath.
