đ.đ: Gifts and gratitude
đhe sun had long since tucked itself beneath the horizon, leaving the palace cloaked in soft candlelight and the low murmur of staff winding down for the night.
But in the western wing's grand dining room, the air was still alive. Warm and familiar.
Elysia sat at the long table's center, flanked by her father on one side and Lucas on the other.
The glow of the chandelier overhead reflected off polished glassware and silver utensils, but even that paled compared to the brightness of her face as she spoke.
The meal before them looked like it had waltzed out of a gourmet fantasy.
Steamed lobster tails layered with herbs and citrus glaze. Roasted root vegetables, caramelized at the edges, glistening with honey butter. Flaky pastries filled with garlic mushrooms and rare Caelondrian cheese.
A deep red wine was paired for the men, while Elysia had opted for a sparkling peach cordial that fizzed and danced in her goblet.
