Chapter 111

Wearing a black wyvern-hide vest and light armor beneath a navy robe, his longsword at his waist, Riftan looked more like a rogue mercenary than a knight. Maxi noted his trimmed hair, as the locks that he usually kept swept back now sat neatly over his comely forehead. The hair on his nape fell much shorter as well. Were it not for his wooden expression and somber eyes, he could easily be mistaken for a young man in his mid-twenties.

Gazing down at Maxi, he handed his reins to Elliot. "You're dressed lightly."

The elation on her face quickly turned into a frown. Was that all he had to say? His unapologetic curtness quashed all her resolve to have a calm conversation.

Hands leaping to her waist, Maxi glared up at him. "W-Why did you not return last night? Where on earth—"

Riftan grabbed her arm and called to the knights behind him, "Take Talon back to the stable. Wait for me at the knights' quarters."