Ramano simply nodded and resumed his task in silence, kneading her shoulders with practiced, mechanical care. The quiet was oppressive—held together only by the faint clink of fine porcelain as Valmiera lifted her teacup once more.
The stillness shattered with the soft hiss of the ornate doors sliding open.
Mavis entered.
She did not stroll in like a cat this time. There was no trace of the usual smirk, no swagger or teasing air. Her steps were silent, posture straight, expression devoid of her trademark mischief.
She walked forward until she stood before Valmiera, then lowered herself to one knee and bowed deeply.
"…Mother," she said, voice quiet but steady.
Valmiera slowly set her teacup down, her eyes never once blinking.
There was no joy on her face. No affection. Not even a flicker of motherly instinct. Just cold appraisal.
"You dare show your face here…" she said icily, "after disgracing me before the Imperial Court?"
Mavis said nothing.
