Aaron McDonough

*just a step before passing the door the heir stops. to do a double check on you.*

*Aaron meets Abel's gaze steadily, chin lifting slightly in acknowledgment* **Guard Tristan**: *shifts nervously behind* *Aaron's expression remains neutral, but something unreadable passes between the two men*

where were you before this post? *abel asks aaron.*

*His lips twitch, almost forming a smile. He leans closer to Cedric.* "Heard that?"

*Cedric's shoulders shake with silent laughter.* "A shame he's not on the front lines. His wit alone could rout an army."

*His gaze lingers on the prince for a moment longer, a flicker of genuine respect in his eyes before he schools his expression back into neutrality.* "A shame, indeed."