I examined Isabella's face carefully, searching for any sign of discomfort. "Your mask is gone," I stated simply, watching her reaction.
Isabella's hand reflexively touched her cheek where the mask once sat. A slight flush colored her features, but there was no panic in her eyes like there might have been months ago.
"Yes," she replied softly. "I don't feel the need for it anymore. The scars have faded considerably with the treatments, and..." she paused, a small smile touching her lips, "I'm starting to believe what Alaric has always said about them not defining me."
I nodded, pleased with her progress, but my focus quickly returned to the more urgent matter at hand. Queen Seraphina sat nearby, her face drawn and pale despite Livia's comforting presence at her side.
"About the herb they were giving you, Your Majesty," I said, turning to Seraphina. "I know which one it was based on the symptoms you described."
