If he's important enough for Wanda to introduce him to her partner as an equal, what does that make them—family? Michael lets only a fraction of his surprise show, and only for a moment, but it's there. Wanda isn't one for open displays of sentiment any more than he is. He files the thought away for use in a teasing remark later. In the meantime, he drops some of the standoffish air he usually carries around strangers as he peers at Matt.

"I won't refuse the opportunity for an ally on the other side of a faction border, especially if Wanda is vouching for your character."

So maybe he doesn't have many friends out there. Thanks, Wanda. There's a face or two in the Free Cities that would greet him with a smile, but he's not sure how far any of them would be willing to go for him if he were truly in a bind.

Michael leans back in his chair, lacing his fingers and settling them on his lap. He doesn't seem relaxed so much as he looks like a tool set in its proper place.

"Regrettably, Solvunn has a limited job market outside of farming and childcare."

There's little work to be found for a lawyer in the commune, and even less for a general.