"That question is quite simple to answer, my liege. We are inside it."
Phoenix frowned at his vagueness.
"What do you mean, inside it?"
"My queen. The reason the mages' guild wanted to tie itself up to your budding kingdom is very simple. This tree in which your palace is built. This tree is our reason."
His answer made no sense to Phoenix, and she kept her frown up.
"Perhaps it is a discussion we should have in private, my queen. When fewer ears are present? It is a sensitive matter for my guild, and we wish to keep some things closer to ourselves."
Phoenix was suddenly suspicious about the man. But his intent still showed no malice, so she indulged him.
"Very well. I shall arrange a private meeting between you and me later on today, with only Leon and Brienne present with us. Does that satisfy you?"
The old man smiled widely, nodding his head once slowly.
