The room was quiet except for the faint crackle of the fireplace. Hazel leaned against the edge of Ren’s desk, her arms crossed but her expression gentle. She watched him for a moment, taking in the weariness etched into his face. He leaned back in his chair, eyes half-closed, the weight of victory heavy on his shoulders.
“You did it, Ren,” Hazel said softly, her voice laced with both pride and tenderness. “You won. Aropia stands tall because of you.”
Ren exhaled slowly, running a hand through his hair. “The soldiers—they made this possible. But... it’s not over yet.”
Hazel stepped closer, resting a hand lightly on his shoulder. “I know. And that’s why we need to be careful now.”
Ren looked up at her, his brow furrowing. “I’ve been thinking about the Drakonian lands we annexed. Keeping them will be a burden—a financial one we can’t afford right now. I’m planning to return them.”
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Hazel frowned slightly but didn’t argue. Instead, she sat on the edge of his desk, facing him. “Even if you do, that won’t solve everything. Princess Nevya is still at large. She’s clever, Ren—dangerously so.”
Ren nodded, his jaw tightening. “And her brother Crimson is missing. I don’t like loose ends, but we can’t chase ghosts right now.”
Hazel reached out, brushing her fingers against his cheek, her touch grounding him. “Then don’t face them alone. Call your allies. Regroup. Strategize.” Her voice softened further, her concern slipping through. “Summon Ogren. Go south and meet with Magron. You trust them. Use that trust.”
Ren placed his hand over hers, his thumb tracing absent patterns against her palm. “You’re right,” he admitted, his tone quieter now. “I’ve been so focused on what’s next, I haven’t thought about how to approach it. I’ll send for Ogren in the morning.”
Hazel smiled, leaning forward to press a light kiss to his forehead. “Good. Let the people who believe in you share the weight.”
And with that, she left, leaving Ren to gather his thoughts in the solace of her unwavering support.