Isola paused in her play, the gravity of the question evident in the slight furrow of her brow.
Nearby, Elsyia and Lyra exchanged glances. The atmosphere shifted palpably, the weight of years of history and grievances pressing down upon them.
"Mirena!" Lyra's tone was sharp, a clear reprimand, "You must watch your words before the princess."
Elsyia's face echoed the sentiment, but before they could berate Mirena further, Isola held up a hand, effectively silencing them, "It's alright," she began, her gaze thoughtful.
For a brief moment, her eyes flitted to where Asher stood before turning to look back at Mirena.
