Rumors and Royalty

The staff moved with quiet efficiency, placing dishes on the table—freshly grilled fish, vibrant salads, and perfectly seared steak. The aroma wrapped around them like a gentle reminder that life, even in the midst of chaos, could still hold ordinary pleasures.

Lyra slid into her seat beside Kaelen, her fingers brushing his as they reached for napkins. He caught her gaze with a faint smile, and s