Just then, Ysmeine appeared in the doorway, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel. "Dinner's ready," she announced, her voice carrying that warm, effortless authority that made even simple statements feel welcoming.
Zaeryn stood, his muscles protesting slightly despite the restorative potion. Viora rose with him. They followed Ysmeine through to the dining room, where the table was already set.
The spread was impressive without being ostentatious. Roasted chicken with herbs that made Zaeryn's mouth water just by looking at it, vegetables glazed with something that caught the light, fresh bread still steaming slightly. Ysmeine had a way of making meals feel like events without making them feel like performances.
Aeris and Ravena were already seated, and they both looked up when Viora entered. Aeris offered a polite nod, professional but friendly. Ravena's green eyes tracked the princess with obvious curiosity, though she kept whatever thoughts she had to herself.
