The snowfall had not yet stopped.
It followed them like a shroud as Leon and his party emerged from the Vale Below. The horses trudged slow but sure, their breath pluming in the cold. Kellen rode ahead, silent, scouting the path through the cragged hills while the two silent wardens flanked the rear, eyes sharp beneath grey hoods. Elaine rode beside Leon, her gaze unreadable.
Neither had spoken since they left the Truthwell.
Only when they passed the frozen ridge into daylight did Elaine finally ask, voice low, "Are you going to tell them? About Elberyn?"
Leon didn't look at her. "No. Not yet."
She didn't press further.
