Now, that was an interesting bit of information. In all the time Erion had known Aldirk he’d been an incredibly reserved noble. Really, it was impressive how close he managed to keep things to his chest. Erion would never give a Ci’Dan the pleasure, but he considered Aldrik to be a role-model prince for both Empire and Mhashan.
“Your brother…” Erion shifted the conversation as gently as possible. The golden haired prince stared into his mug as though it held every secret of the universe. He sighed heavily and shook his head.
“There’s been no further word. I’m sure Jax told you what Elecia sent?”
Erion nodded.
“I know no more than that.”
The royal family was, indeed, in turmoil. Baldair’s brow was not prepared to ever wear the crown and Erion knew well that the younger prince didn’t even want it. Erion sighed heavily. He’d been stubborn about hunting down the truth of Serien Leral, but the secrecy began to make sense. If Aldrik would no longer ascend the throne there would be mass uncertainty. The West would be none too pleased by the notion, even if they’d lost their connection to the throne due to the elder prince falling in battle. There would be questioning of Baldair’s capability to lead. And the North would see the Empire as fragile as it likely would be if such a truth came to pass.
Erion would need to move carefully for the next few weeks. Things were changing and his family was depending on him to keep the Le’Dans relevant in whatever the next world order would hold. Just as important, he needed to look out for his blonde headed brother through it all.
Erion genuinely sipped his mug, letting the ale wash over his tongue. “He’ll be all right,” he said, finally. “Aldrik will rise from the pass. The winds are howling here in Soricium for him. There is no other way.”
Baldair considered Erion for a long moment. The prince knew clearly now of Erion’s suspicions about the woman. With one statement Erion had conveyed his understanding of the situation, his knowledge of the woman and her need for secrecy, as well as his assumptions surrounding the relationship between the crown prince and the Windwalker.
The golden prince finally nodded, resting his shoulder lightly against Erion’s in support, just barely touching. “Yes, there is no other way.”