The gardens of the Lycanthria palace were wide and carefully maintained. Somewhere in the area, a large patch of grass had been cleared for their usual gathering. A blanket was spread neatly on the ground. Baskets filled with bread, meat, cheese, grapes, sliced cake, and a jug of watered wine were placed on one side. Plates, cups, and a small knife for slicing fruit were arranged beside them.
Serene sat on the large wool blanket, with her legs folded to the side. Evander sat across from her, leaning back slightly on one arm. Seraphina lay on her stomach, her chin propped on her hands, kicking her feet slowly behind her.
They had been waiting. They had set the picnic an hour ago.
Serene exhaled. "Aveloria said she would come this time." She said.
Evander reached for a piece of cheese from the basket. "She always says that." He swallowed the cheese and brushed the crumbs from his fingers.
"She will come," Seraphina replied, though her tone lacked certainty.
