[Relaxing his anything feels like an ordeal. It's not as though Stephen is afraid of heights, owning a magical cape that allows him to soar through the air if necessary, but that does not erase all caution from his aching bones. Namely, that it would still hurt to take a tumble from a horse, especially if this unfortunate turn of events came swiftly. (Then again, he does wonder how much the Cloak of Levitation, hanging at his back, would be able to keep him steady on his mount if this tragedy did sending him flying. It'd probably be fine.)

Stephen sighs. He forces himself to relax, which is a paradox at its core. One he's sure to ignore once they move across another stretch of rocky terrain, or an ungodly downward slope, but for now, he loosens his grip on the horn of the saddle.]

Bells? [Distance? Time? What is that? You know what, never mind. He suspects Thancred means "close".]

I won't slow us down. Don't worry. [Says the man who will request a wagon ride in the future with zero regrets.] I've powered through a lot worse than a long, outdoors road trip. And with worse company. The two of you are bearable, at least.

[He jokes. Be flattered! His horse snorts.]