"Well, Brother Helios may know you better than anyone," Aurien said with a soft, breathy laugh. "But I would like to believe I have learned a thing or two about you over the years. And there is nothing that gives you more joy than putting weaklings in their place."
Ezra knew there was no hidden meaning in the words.
Aurien was not mocking him.
Not accusing him.
Just stating what he believed to be true.
Still, the comment sat heavier than it should have.
'He is not wrong,' Ezra admitted inwardly.
But hearing it from Aurien made something twist faintly in his chest.
Because he had not always been kind to him.
Because he had only shifted his perspective once Aurien changed.
And Aurien likely knew that.
He must have.
Yet there was no bitterness in his tone.
Only amusement.
"Captain Ezra."
"Hm?" Ezra blinked and realized he had drifted off. "Yes, Your Highness?"
Aurien tilted his chin toward the distant clock tower visible above the trees.
