"The Prince didn't send me here," answered Elsa, returning Wadim's intent gaze. "Bardhyl is the one who came to us, with visions and rumors telling him you were still alive. And any enemy of the Jackal is... if not necessarily my friend, then at least a useful person to have around. I wish we could've joined forces much earlier, but I suppose late is better than never."
She chuckled bitterly. "If I can only protect the princedom by working behind the Prince's back, then so be it."