Alice stood a few steps inside the study, her hands were clasped in front of her, posture straight but cautious.
Alaric didn't look up from the desk at first.
"Report," he said.
Alice swallowed, and began. "The visit to the Rose Home went well, General. Master Julian welcomed Her Highness personally. The estate has expanded. There were new buildings, wider farmland. The women were pleased to see her. Many showed her the skills they've learned since she was last there. Sewing, bookkeeping, even basic healing."
Alaric listened without interrupting, eyes fixed on nothing in particular.
"She spoke with them," Alice continued. "Encouraged them. Promised to visit again soon. They were… grateful. Very much so."
She paused.
Alaric noticed immediately.
"Speak," he said.
Alice hesitated, then lowered her head slightly. "When I went to inform Her Highness that it was time to leave… she didn't look herself."
Alaric's fingers stilled on the desk.
"In what way?" he asked.
