Alicia lounged on the plush sofa of her room, her long white hair cascading over her shoulders. A holographic call flickered before her, and the familiar face of her mother, Serena von Crestvale, filled the screen.
For a moment, the call was filled with casual greetings and banter about Alex and the upcoming ball—until Alicia's expression sobered slightly.
"Mother," Alicia greeted with a smile, adjusting the collar of her oversized sweater. Despite her usual poise, there was a softness in her eyes when speaking to her mother.
Serena's holographic figure wore her usual dignified expression, dressed in a sleek silver-and-blue noble gown. Her graceful aura was undeniable—even as a projection.
"I've been meaning to ask—how is Father? I guess he's doing fine, right?"
Serena's expression twitched ever so slightly. She exhaled softly, her elegant features relaxing into a more somber tone. "He's… well. Just incredibly busy as of late. He hasn't been home in weeks."
