After twilight, the Red Tide City was lightly brushed by snow, and the halls on the upper floor of the Earth Tower castle were glowing with golden firelight.
The fireplace was burning, with tongues of fire reflected on the stone walls. Silver platters held stewed mushrooms and roasted cod, filling the air with a warm fragrance.
The attendant quietly set the dishes aside, with cups and goblets clinking lightly.
Louis sat at the main seat, his cloak draped on the back of the chair, looking up at the ceiling, pondering something unknown.
He seldom held banquets; governance, meetings, and paperwork nearly occupied all his daily time.
Tonight was an exception, for one person.
The door was pushed open, bringing in a gust of cold air.
"I heard there might be fish tonight? Boss, you've finally remembered your brother!" Yorn Harvey's voice was louder than the wind.
