It's ironic, really. Beleth had come to Skyhold for the others, to stick with the members of her clan that decided to go. They're scattered to the winds now, but Beleth is still here, with new goals and a new title to match.

She is incredibly glad that the title doesn't make Merrill treat Beleth any different, and she's quick to return the hug, with a pleased laugh to go along with it. It's a relief to know that whatever Merrill had been doing in her time away, she had returned very much the same Merrill that left.

"And I, you. So much has happened since you left--but I am sure that you've been having all kinds of adventures. You must have some truly impressive tales to tell." She doesn't ignore the dog, of course, and makes sure to give him some scratches while she speaks, and even fishes out a strip of jerky to give him. It was intended to be a dragon treat, not a dog treat, but it works well enough--and the mabari will probably appreciate it more than Kolgrim, anyway.