"Leave us," Henrietta calmly dismissed everyone beside Astoria from the great hall floor with a wave of her hand.
Shortly after Evanore and the other matriarchs left, the brief silence made the atmosphere between Henrietta and Astoria seemingly tense.
However, it was broken by Henrietta's bright smile.
Henrietta quickly left her throne and welcomed Astoria with a big leaping hug, arms wide open. Her body swung around after catching Astoria, but the latter remained firm on the spot without shifting due to the additional weight on her body.
"Why did you come to see me, Astoria?" Henrietta asked obliviously.
"What do you mean why did I come to see you?" Astoria glanced at her speechlessly before replying, "Weren't you the one that wanted to see me? I received your letter."
"What is this important matter you wanted to talk to me about regarding Vaan?" Astoria asked shortly after.
She did not doubt Henrietta would try to harm Vaan.
