The days following Aragon's arrival at the fortress passed in a blur of war councils and strategy sessions. The lords of the kingdom argued and planned, mapping out routes for messengers and preparing for a counter-offensive against the Arakenys forces that still occupied the northern provinces. Yet as the week progressed, a curious development did not escape notice – both Aragon and Freja were increasingly absent from these meetings.
At first, their absences were explained away by reasonable justifications. Aragon needed to scout with Eliviraa. Freja was coordinating intelligence from the eastern borders. But as the days passed, the whispers began. They were seen walking together along the ramparts at dawn. Both missing from the evening meal. Returning together from the direction of the western foothills, deep in conversation.
