Garion and the others sat around a long table in the restaurant, plates stacked high and steam still rising from the food.
Garion didn't waste any time.
He grabbed a thick piece of meat with his hands and took a huge bite.
"Ah," he said with satisfaction. "I missed this."
Dahlia stared at him. "Master, you just got back and you're already eating like a beast."
Garion chewed loudly and waved his hand. "Training burns calories."
Beside him, the Vessel Demon sat stiffly on the edge of the chair.
His hands rested on his knees, his back straight, his eyes glued to the table.
In front of him was a full plate of food.
Meat, vegetables, soup, bread.
He didn't touch any of it.
Garion noticed and frowned.
"Eat."
The Vessel Demon flinched.
He glanced at Dahlia, then Rachel, then the others.
"I… I shouldn't," he said quietly. "I'm fine just watching."
Garion looked at him.
"Eat," he repeated, voice calm but firm.
The Vessel Demon swallowed.
