********
His senses stirred.
There was another presence inside.
Distinct.
Unfamiliar.
He glanced over his shoulder toward Emir.
"Do we have a guest?" he asked.
"Indeed, young master," Emir replied. "It would be best if you met this individual as well."
Mikael's brows furrowed slightly as he caught another flicker of that same subtle tension from earlier.
'Is it because of whoever's inside…?'
His thoughts shifted rapidly.
'Who could it be?'
A ridiculous possibility surfaced, causing him to scoff inwardly.
'It's not the Emperor… right?'
He almost shook his head at the absurdity.
'Even if His Majesty is aware of my identity as a Saint, he wouldn't personally visit a Viscount's estate for such a reason. The political implications alone…'
