Alister's eyes lingered on him for a moment longer before shifting, a subtle change softening the tension in the air.
"Good. Now, with that out of the way…" His tone shifted, almost amused, though still carrying a regal weight. "…you are going to have to reintroduce me to my granddaughter. She gave me quite the hard time. I don't know how I let her get away with so much, because now my pride feels somewhat trampled."
Yu'Keto blinked, his expression flickering with confusion.
"Your… granddaughter?" he repeated, unsure. Then, realization struck him, freezing him mid-breath.
"Aiko…" he whispered, the name slipping out like a guilty admission. His silver eyes darted toward his father, trembling just slightly.
"Ah… Father, she is young and foolish. Please, don't take what she did to heart."
Alister's golden eyes gleamed faintly, his lips curling into the hint of a smile.
