By contrast, Mikino was very much in his element here. He had made a game of it when he was younger, and while the stakes were nothing to play with now, it had added an element of fun and competition that he still delighted in most days. The layout was as familiar to him as his own home. Moreso these days. Still, it was not an easy thing to track someone down here. He had personal attachés for that. So when he approached, no doubt spotted first by Brokk, it was a matter of courtesy that he had come to her, rather than the mere chance it could be put down to.
Of course, he was dressed with all the elegant simplicity his office demanded, sporting the soft colors of his House. The colors that would be her own soon, if nothing went awry. His wrist was clasped behind his back, lending him a militant air that was almost humorous for those who knew how mild he could be outside his role of Judgment. Everything in its place. He went out of his way these days because it aided in erasing the memory of him after the explosion, injured and bloodied, on that crutch for days. The palace was still undergoing some repairs, but Mikino was a shining example that its people had recovered. Even if it was all just an illusion.
“I see you have survived your first few days.” Brokk was given a slight nod of acknowledgment, but no more. He was not the one that Mikino had come to see, but if he was to be a part of the Alcaeyn Household, he would not evade those knowing eyes. Welcoming as they would be, it might feel very much like venturing into enemy territory. His unique gift ensured that Mikino retained only the most fiercely loyal staff, and after the attack targeted at their little Shayleiah, they were more guarded now than ever. Aredhel was not with him this evening. Instead, it was a young woman, similarly clothed and armed to mark her as his guard for the evening. Perhaps it was unnecessary here in the palace, but this was no time to take chances. Not after how close they had all come.