The next day, Arlan and Oriana were ready to bid farewell to Aaron and Lucian, who were departing for the northeast. Before leaving, Arlan noticed Oriana seemed deep in thought.
"What are you thinking about?" he asked.
She snapped back to reality. "Oh, nothing. Just that finally everything is over and peaceful."
Arlan hummed in agreement as they walked out of Thistle Palace. Once they settled in the carriage, Oriana looked at him. "Arlan."
"Hmm?"
"Once we return after saying goodbye, I have something to tell you."
"What is it?"
"I’ll tell you after we get back."
He stared at her for a moment before awkwardly clearing his throat and looking away. "If you keep looking at me like that, I won’t tell you."
"Alright, but whatever it is, you have to tell me."
She nodded.
They arrived at the guest mansion where Aaron was staying. Lucian had been offered a room there as well, but he preferred to stay at Ken’s home instead.
Outside the guest mansion, preparations for departure were in full swing. Aaron had to carry many gifts from the King, filling several carriages. Half of the dark forces’ knights were allowed to accompany Aaron, serving him as their master.
The dark force, created by Arlan primarily to target Luis, had seen significant contributions from Aaron. He found, trained, and commanded these loyal knights, who were now ready to depart with their horses.
Lucian arrived with his family—his parents, sister, Ken, and his wife, along with dozens of men from his own mysterious group of warriors. Aaron and Lucian were leaving together.
Gwen and Paul greeted Aaron, "Greetings, Lord Wynter."
Aaron offered a polite nod and replied, "You two can call me Aaron. You are Lucian’s family, which means you’re my family as well."
They turned to Lucian, who offered them an approving nod. The couple could only agree to the request. From this moment onward, in the northeast, they would be each other’s family.
"So, does that mean I can call you brother as well, Lord Wynter?" Rina asked.
Aaron, who rarely smiled, allowed his lips to curve slightly as he looked at the young girl who was less than half his size. "Of course. You are my sister as well."
"Alright, brother Aaron."
Aaron turned to Lucian. "I have something to—"
Just then, Arlan and Oriana arrived, interrupting the conversation. Everyone greeted the royal couple.
Arlan turned to Aaron. "I don’t see Nathan."
"He will join us at the next city where we’ll have our first stop. He’s dealing with some important matters," Aaron informed him.
"Arthur is still there. His military troops are taking care of everything. Once you arrive, he will help you with any important matters," Arlan explained.
"Thank you, Your Highness."
Meanwhile, Oriana talked to Gwen and Rina.
"Aunt Gwen, this is for you," she said, handing over a wooden box. "There are some medicines to help your recovery. I’ve included a note explaining how to take them."
"Thank you, Oriana."
"Oriana, will you come visit us?" Rina asked.
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