[Flick, flick go those shadow dark eyes in the stranger's face. The sudden change of temperature in the girl's demeanor has spurred some further examination. Anyone can be anything in Horizon; her accoutrements may mean nothing at all.

(Then why is his coat so drab, and why is the pin at his collar tarnished rather than gleaming? Old habits, he thinks for the very first time since passing into this place. And it would be silly to make any alteration now while she's looking.)

But then again, they might.]

He didn't mention you either, [he says after a beat, a statement in stark opposition to The general sent me. He is unattached to the lie, and gives it over easily in favor of:] But I suspect that isn't due to a lack of importance. Why has he been hiding you, little bird?

[Those are antlers about her neck.]

Little doe.