The two women turned their horses around and prepared to leave the manor when their eyes fell upon that familiar scowl.
It was Riven.
He stood just a few paces from the garden wall, one hand resting lightly on the hilt of his blade, his golden hair drawn back in a loose tie at the nape of his neck. Tall and broad-shouldered, Riven looked every inch the Dawnbreak officer he was, stoic, handsome, and visibly displeased to see them.
Serena exchanged glances with Charlotte and then offered Riven a placid smile. This, she thought grimly, was the worst possible person to encounter at this hour.
"Ambassador Serena," Riven said curtly, eyes flicking toward her before passing to Charlotte with less interest.
"Delegate Riven," she replied sweetly. "What a surprise. I had not expected to run into you so soon."
"I might say the same," he said coolly. "What brings the Crimsonclaw delegation to Blackthorn Keep this evening? Another surprise announcement, perhaps?"
