A soft chime rang from within the chamber, and the balcony doors sighed open further as two attendants stepped out.
Silver cloches glimmered under the lantern light as they were set down one by one, delicate cuts of roasted game, pale slivers of spiced fruit, bread braided and glossed to perfection, each dish steaming faintly under the subtle hum of ether‑heated plates. Crystal glasses were refreshed with wine the color of deep garnet, catching and scattering the light as though the night itself had been poured into them.
Gabriel inclined his head in a muted acknowledgment, hands folding neatly in his lap as the attendants withdrew with another low bow, leaving the air heavy with fragrant herbs and warm spices. Olivier waited until they were alone again before lifting his glass, swirling the wine in slow circles as though savoring the moment.
