The meal at Medelien's restaurant was as lively as it was long. Plates clinked, Isaac hooted smugly every time he snatched the best cuts, and Flurry tried — unsuccessfully — to peck seeds out of Dodo's fur.
By the time Gilgamel leaned back in his chair, Collin's casual face had given way to rare flickers of banter — small but undeniable proof they were both at ease here, surrounded by warmth and good food.
But Gilgamel hadn't come just to steal Collin's snacks.
He had business.
Gilgamel stood and made his way toward the kitchen.
The door swung open with a soft creak, and the warmth of Medelien's domain washed over him like an embrace of gentle spices and simmering broth.
