[Gale's POV]
The warmth filling the small, private room came from more than just the twin hotpots bubbling merrily on the table. It was the steam carrying the rich scent of bone broth and spices, the glow of the paper lantern overhead, and something else. Something intangible. Ann, with a focus usually reserved for weapon maintenance, was carefully selecting the plumpest mushrooms and crispest greens and placing them into Ovelia's bowl. Ovelia ate them with a smile of pure, uncomplicated delight, the fairy stuffed toy resting in her lap like a cherished talisman. Ray, across from me, and Ace, sitting beside Ovelia, were engaged in a silent, diplomatic exchange of soup broths from opposite pots, each convinced their chosen flavor base was superior.
