Illena studied him in silence for a moment, her fingers lightly tracing the handle of her cup. Then, with a soft breath, she leaned forward slightly, with a teasing smile.
"Your mother is… quite the presence," she murmured. "I must admit, I was not expecting to meet the former empress in such a manner."
Arkanos gave a short, humorless chuckle. "Neither was I."
Arkanos exhaled softly, shaking his head with a knowing look. "But I expected it."
Illena chuckled, swirling her tea lightly before taking another sip.
"Oh, my love, your mind may always be prepared for anything, but I have a surprise even you would never have anticipated."
Arkanos smiled in kind. He could sense something was making her truly happy, and that in turn pleased him. Yet, his curiosity was piqued. "I remember you mentioned wanting to surprise me earlier," he mused, tilting his head slightly. "I'm curious—what is it?"
