Kaelara’s expression remained neutral as Sonia turned to her for weapon advice, though she noted the way the huntress prodded at the Captain like a cat toying with a cornered mouse. It was amusing.

Before she could answer, the courier—Shelby Appleton, or whatever he wanted to call himself—lingered just long enough to make his exit awkward. He was jumpy, cautious. But something in his tone, the way he repeated that question. At his excuse about sunburns, she let out a quiet huff that might’ve been a suppressed laugh. He was skittish, but not useless. At least, she hoped not. 

She turned back to Sonia. “Depends on what you want. Another bow’s redundant. Short sword’s a safe bet. Compact, versatile. You more comfortable with a blade, or are you thinking something heavier?”

Even as she spoke, her attention flicked toward the Captain, watching for his reaction to Shelby's question. Sonia wasn’t the only one who caught the gaps in his explanations, her own interest piqued despite herself. That was a good question—and one the captain would likely prefer not to answer.

So, she waited, arms crossed, watching for the response.