A short while later, she returned with Callista.
Scarlett rose first, greeting the older woman with a polite smile.
"Queen Consort Callista."
Callista returned her smile, though the strain in her expression was difficult to hide.
"There's no need for such formality, Princess Scarlett. We only met a little while ago, after all."
Scarlett noticed the tension in her voice but didn't comment on it. She glanced toward Kiara, who remained seated and watched Callista without saying a word.
The silence stretched between mother and daughter.
Scarlett shifted slightly, trying to ease the awkwardness without forcing either of them to speak.
"Would you like a moment of privacy? I can't go too far because of the spell, but I can wait in another room if you wish."
Callista shook her head.
"It's all right. You can stay."
She then turned toward her attendant.
"Uee, you may leave us."
The maid bowed and left the suite, closing the door behind her.
