Simon followed Seraya through a passage overlooking the lake.
Water shimmered beneath the glass bridges outside. A pair of servants carrying covered trays stepped aside as they approached, bowing before continuing in the opposite direction.
"Does your whole family live here?" he asked.
"Yes. Though getting everyone to sit at the same table can be troublesome."
"And today?"
"Today, they're curious."
She glanced at him, then stopped before a pair of tall doors.
Dark wood filled their golden frames. Across both panels, silver branches spread around clusters of amber fruit, the carvings joining neatly where the doors met.
Two guards stood on either side.
They bowed to Seraya, then each took a handle and pulled.
The scent of roasted meat reached Simon first.
He stepped inside beside her.
