The entourage returned to the mansion just as day surrendered to night.
"Thank you, Athillia, for today," said Kyren, walking beside the Bargesian princess as they made their way toward the main hall. "I'm relieved we were able to settle your matter, and that your uncle accepted you without resistance. Now that he's agreed to take you in, I hope your mind can finally be at ease."
Athillia gave a faint smile. She was happy—truly happy—to finally have a family member she could rely on. Yet, deep inside, something tugged at her heart, a quiet sadness she could not name. Kyren, however, remained unaware of the shadow flickering behind her smile.
From the hallway ahead, Rosalie appeared and bowed in greeting.
"Welcome home, Your Highness and Lady Athillia. Forgive my late greetings. I had just come down from your suites, attending to Lady Raychard."
"Ah, no need to apologise," said Kyren. His gaze swept past her instinctively. "Anna didn't come down with you?"
