Malvoria watched as Elysia cradled Kaelith in her arms, the baby instantly settling with a dramatic little sigh like a queen finally reunited with her favorite servant.
It should have been a heartwarming sight. Elysia murmuring soft words, swaying gently, her fingers stroking Kaelith's soft tufts of white hair streaked with faint crimson at the tips.
A soft glow lit both their faces, casting them in the warm, familiar magic of motherhood.
And yet...
Malvoria narrowed her eyes.
Kaelith was looking at her.
Not just looking. Staring. Glaring, even.
Tiny nose wrinkled, brows drawn together, those oversized grey eyes fixed on Malvoria with the fierce, unblinking intensity of someone delivering a very specific threat.
Malvoria blinked, leaning forward slightly.
The glare deepened.
Elysia chuckled under her breath. "What's that look for, little flame? You're with Mama now."
Kaelith responded by gripping a strand of Elysia's hair and burying her face in it possessively.
