Stella could be seen bustling about the room, giving quick orders to the maids as they arranged the evening meal on the long table.
The aroma of mouth-watering food filled the air, making the chamber feel warm and inviting. The food was set neatly, waiting for the master of the house to arrive.
Across the room, Lumina knelt by the low table, grinding herbs carefully in a small stone bowl.
She had spent most of the evening learning new ways to mix nutrients into simple tonics that could help restore strength.
The faint earthy smell of the crushed leaves clung to her fingers as she worked, humming softly to herself.
The quiet sound of boots against the floor made her freeze. She did not need Stella to announce who it was.
She felt him before anyone spoke. Her lips curved in a soft smile that gave her away instantly.
"Ashen…" she breathed, standing so quickly her stool almost tipped.
