Upon hearing Nicholas’ question, Arias felt a slight sense of surprise. 'Good news and bad news?' He didn't immediately respond but stood there quietly, contemplating.
Observing Nicholas’ face, Arias noticed a faint smile at the corner of his lips, his eyes gleaming with excitement, and his relaxed eyebrows not drawn together in worry. There were no signs of concern or tension on his face. 'The bad news probably isn’t something serious. Maybe it’s nothing significant at all.' Perhaps the head knight was even trying to make a joke to tease his king.
"I've just returned from the dungeon, so I’ll hear the good news first as a welcome back," Arias decided, given that the bad news didn’t seem too urgent.
As soon as Arias responded, Nicholas’ smile widened slightly, his eyes reflecting excitement. He bowed his head slightly before delivering the good news.
"Lady Maria has given birth, Your Majesty."