Dinner was served shortly after Jarza and Basil swept into the high hall straight from the gardens, their loud, booming laughter echoing off the rafters as they made their way across the stone floor with wide, breathless smiles.
They gathered around a magnificent, long oak table draped in a heavy white linen cloth, its borders meticulously sewn with glittering threads of real gold and silver. Atop the pristine fabric, wide arrays of winter fruits and frosted berries lingered in silver bowls, practically waiting to be ravaged by the members waiting patiently in their high-backed seats.
"Have you finally had your fun, gloomy one?" Asag asked, tilting his head with a teasing smile as young Basil flopped unceremoniously into the chair beside his father.
