With that, he turned without another word, striding toward the exit. Elias followed a step behind, his expression unreadable.
The moment they stepped outside, the crisp afternoon air greeted them, a stark contrast to the heavy warmth of the meeting hall.
The carriage was already waiting, the horses standing steady as Alaric and another stable hand tended to them.
Alaric caught sight of them immediately. His eyes flicked to Elias, but he said nothing, merely bowing slightly before stepping away to allow them to board.
Elias climbed into the carriage first, taking his place opposite Cassius as the door shut behind them.
The familiar quietness settled between them, but it was different from before, this time it was charged with unspoken words.
Elias exhaled softly, allowing himself to finally relax just for the slightest bit.
Cassius, kept his eyes on Elias which was hard to tell through the mask but Elias could feel it.
The silence stretched before Cassius finally broke it.
