Alaric just let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head.
"It's fine," he said simply.
Livia's tense exposure was loosened into somewhat... relief?
And she gave him a nod.
Then as if sensing his presence, Mirenna's sharp voice cut off mid-sentence.
When she turned toward the entrance, her expressions transformed into a practiced diplomatic smile which didn't reach her eyes.
Caleb straightened as well, his shoulders squaring in a weak attempt to reclaim some dignity.
He shot one quick, resentful glance at Alaric before looking away.
Alaric paid them no mind, he simply moved to lean against the far corner of the chamber.
Outside at the gate, Livia remained in place, her grey eyes fixed on Alaric's distant figure.
Is he really him? she thought as her fingers tightened against her pendant.
"Livia, dear." Mirenna's voice brought her out of her trail of thoughts, when she her staring at Alaric for too long.
"Come here."
