Under the ancient elm tree, the gathering proceeded with an atmosphere that did not reflect the chaos further away.
A cool breeze drifted through the academy grounds, carrying with it the distant noise of arguments still raging within the great hall. Here, however, the atmosphere had settled into something more peaceful and warm.
Thane was devouring his sixth meat pie, unconcerned by chaos, peacefulness, or warmth in the slightest.
He had food, and that was everything that mattered to the hungry.
Eudora was watching both her father and brother as though she expected either to declare war on a neighboring kingdom at any moment.
Conor and Rimon sat stiff-backed, still struggling to accept that they were sharing a meal with a count and two academy principals.
Sky, at least, had recovered enough composure for her arm to start grabbing food.
Max was the least concerned. He remained as elegant as ever, seated quietly beside Thane.
