"How is Heappal?"
Thalia sobered slightly.
"He's with the physician. They're tending to him. I think it's best we let him rest and recover there a bit before moving him again."
Salviana nodded. "That's wise. For now, this mansion is safe. We were meant to go out today but—" she gestured vaguely, "now we stay. And we celebrate your return."
Jean threw her hands up. "Dress her up! Dinner it is!"
The mood brightened again. Excitement buzzed in the room like stardust. Despite the bloodshed outside, despite the dark woods, the hunters, and the shadows of war, for now—just for now—they had each other.
And there was laughter, perfume, and the soft rustle of silks.
Evening.
The dining hall of Moor Mansion shimmered in golden light, the chandeliers overhead swaying ever so slightly with the late evening breeze that passed through the open arched windows.
The long oak table gleamed under layers of polished finish, adorned with freshly gathered flowers and gleaming silverware.
