Rayadell’s brows rose fractionally when Calanon turned to her. She opened her mouth to repeat herself, but closed it again a she registered the mild surprise in his expression in place of misunderstanding.
	She did not offer to return his pleasantry of a smile, instead giving only a slight, stiff nod at Calanon’s last statement. She cast one more look behind her to the mountains, then turned her full attention to the elk. Her gaze ever wary, she slowly approached the animal, watching Calanon only with her peripheral vision. Her back still ached when she thought of the last time she had tried to mount a steed, but, if it would let her answer the call of the mountains faster, it was worth the risk.
	Had the animal shown no ire toward her approach, Rayadell held her breath and placed a gentle, gloved hand on Brogach's side, feeling his fur with her bare fingertips, and waiting for Calanon to mount first.