Mikhael anticipated for the ride to remain silent for quite some time, as it usually happened when the two argued before, both parties breaking off in a huff and requiring time to settle their prideful egos. There was never a proper apology or anything to smooth bumps over, things just went back to 'normal' after a time, Mikhael acting as if it never happened. But it was Lilith who surprised him again, speaking first in a softer voice, confronting their social hurdle directly. She changed a lot during this time. But he can't say he didn't act out differently either. Too much has happened in just this single day for anyone to cope with, let alone those who were barely past the age of adolescence. They weren't even knights until a few hours ago. 

	The young knight grunted upon being prodded, the soles of his boots clattering against the wood as he dropped them without warning, turning to Lilith and glancing down at the sword from underneath the hood. The crimson orbs stared at the weapon for a while, as though he was figuring out something in his head, the color wavering like pools disturbed by heavy droplets.

	"Thought you said you didn't have a clue where we're going? Although, I guess we're both at fault for hiding things from each other." pulling out a thin dagger from a hidden slot in the leather of his boots, "You'd really think I'd disarm and be helpless if we got attacked?" wiggling the metal with a sly smile, "I'm not the type to sit back and let someone do my work. Nor can I allow you lot take all of the glory either." frowning suddenly, "I'm grateful you can trust me enough to bear arms, but I cannot tolerate you speaking like that to our Queen." returning the sword to his side, "Or about my character for that matter. I'm a free man, not a 'tool'. I follow her because I want to. Not because I am forced to."

	As Mikhael said this, he stepped down the perch and moved a few paces towards the edge of the rocky path, appearing to want to drop the topic judging by his abrupt shift in focus. He had a hand placed on his chin, his gaze filled with inquiry as though he noticed the changed environment for the first time. 

	"Maple, you said? What a strange name..." He narrowed his eyes and picked at one, reaching out to one on the tip of a nearby branch with a light hop.

...