The Moonwell Tragedy

If Tycondrius were a better person, he would have recognized the young Highblade's bravery and respected her wishes. 

...If he were a better person, he might have considered her words, then made tactful inquiries about whatever troubles had come to pass. 

Unfortunately, Tycon was not that. 

The Highblade's age was a point of weakness. 

He chose to capitalize on it. 

Tycon turned to face the Sapling... and relaxed his control over his Gold-Rank aura. 

The Shadowstrider was first to react. They took a step backward and melded into the shadows. 

His or her presence disappeared completely. 

...It was not a stealth-type Skill. A moment later, Tycon sensed their aura, faint and... distant. 

They had fled in earnest. 

Tycon took a step towards the Highblade, his aura pulsing outward. The surroundings trembled, yet the expensive tile underfoot remained undamaged.