[It's weariness, he would insist, that has him starting ever so slightly at the intrusion, but he doesn't bother to disguise his moment of surprise. Not even when asked about something that gets his back up.

But this is one of the Strangers, those that the Queen herself brought through. He can forgive the letting down his guard this much even. This time.]

She's... You'll find that magic can often take quite the toll here. She's capable of much, but even queens need their rest.