He'd sent Reepicheep off to scout around the far edges of the paddocks – perhaps Susan is looking at space for an expansion of the stable buildings, or considering shifting the fences. For himself, he'd gotten a hot cup of tea and forgotten to drink it, letting it slowly steam itself cool as he looks out the windows toward the back porch.

At the familiar voice, he jerks around. Cuthbert looks sleepy, but not concerned, which is perhaps a good sign. Caspian makes his way over to the bar and sets down his untouched cup of tea. "Good morning, Cuthbert," he says.

His air is pleasant enough, but there's something tight in his shoulders and at the corners of his eyes. "You haven't happened to see Susan yet, have you?"