The study's guest area was noticeably warmer than the hall.
A fire glowed quietly in the stone hearth, its gentle crackle easing the hush that fell as everyone stepped inside. Shelves lined the walls; their corners cluttered with boxes and ledgers.
Dim light streamed through the tall windows, casting a soft glow over the snow-covered grounds. Outside, little had changed; winter still wrapped the estate in a blanket of white.
Mikael crossed the room without haste and stopped beside the large desk positioned near the windows.
"Please," he said as he motioned toward the seating arranged before it. "Have a seat."
Fenric inclined his head. "I thank you, my lady."
Shoes and boots scraped softly across the wooden floor as everyone settled into place. Mikael occupied the sofa, and Fenric sat opposite of him. Aurel chose the seat slightly to Mikael's left, close enough to observe the discussion without intruding upon it, while Sir Gareth remained standing a respectful distance away.
