Truly the same girl, isn't she, Your Majesty King Ragnar?

Elder Cryica considered the suggestion with a grave expression.

"If Lady Sophia believed she needed to undertake a crucial mission for her people, it is conceivable," she replied slowly, her voice carrying a sense of sadness. "She may have found a way to save your husband, Shi. Let us hope for the best. You must stay strong, as you have done all along."

"Qedren would never abandon Reeve unless compelled by someone of higher authority, and even then, only in dire circumstances," Shi added, her thoughts racing.

"There's no one with higher authority here than Ragnar Clementine and Sophia Mary Clementine," Elder Cryica reminded her gently.

"You're right, Elder," Shi agreed, a shiver running down her spine as the implications sank in.