Being new, Even felt like him settling into the palace would be a long time away from now. That he had only been there a day wasn't making him feel any better, for the sensation of being somewhere he didn't belong overrode the logical reassurances he tried to give himself.

"No," he said, shrugging his shoulders. "I ventured into the gardens briefly this morning, but I didn't stray too far on account of the malboros." He gave him a pointed look.