Mikhailis sat inside his own carriage, the sounds of horses' hooves echoing against the path as they moved through the quiet countryside. He leaned back, trying to ignore the strange churn in his stomach. Across from him sat Lira and Serelith, both of whom seemed uncharacteristically quiet. It had been a morning full of surprises, starting with the odd arrangement that had placed Earl Vaelis Drakar together with Elowen in one carriage, leaving Mikhailis with only Lira and Serelith. Vaelis had said something about needing a private consultation with the queen regarding military rebuilding in his territory—a conversation that seemed perfectly timed to ensure Mikhailis couldn't join them.