The corridor outside the Great Hall still hummed with unsettled energy as Aire was guided out by Nate.
Nate walked beside her with a careful control. He had one arm slightly behind her back, not touching her unless she leaned too far, and not pulling unless she stumbled.
Aire didn't speak as they walked out.
She barely even looked at the passing guards who lowered their heads as she passed.
Behind them, Alaric watched the distance between Nate and Aire. His jaw tightened once, subtly, as Nate adjusted his pace to match hers again.
He hated the sight of it, but he didn't interfere. At least not today when she looked like she might break if someone even spoke too sharply.
So he stayed back, and let Nate take her.
Aire's steps slowed briefly, when the palace corridor opened into a quieter wing.
Nate shifted closer grounding her beside him.
"You're almost there," he said quietly, not pressing her forward.
