Braze was dressed in one of his more refined outfits today, blending black, white, and silver fabrics into a layered ensemble that extended down to his knee-high boots. There was more cloth than usual covering him, the multiple layers giving him a more formal, yet comfortable, appearance.
As he entered the courtyard, his eyes landed on Casaana, and he offered her a warm wave.
"Good to see you out and about, Casaana," Braze called lightly, his tone friendly.
His attention shifted as he spotted Loomi, her golden skin catching the light. A genuine smile spread across his face.
"Wow, Loomi, you look amazing," he chirped, sensing her unease. In his typical playful manner, he sought to ease her nerves.
"Isn't it lovely with all the flowers around?" he asked, gesturing toward the vibrant blossoms surrounding them. When he noticed Persephone Dashiell nearby, he wiggled his fingers in a playful wave, his smile widening.
"Hello~! Nice to see Casaana has such fine company," Braze teased lightly, clearly approving of the group.
Turning back to Loomi, he nodded toward the building.
"Come on, let's head inside and find a nice spot to sit. Not too close to the fire pit, though," he chirped, his tone as bright as ever.
Stepping indoors, they were greeted by the grand entryway, where a koi pond glistened beneath the soft lighting. The entire building seemed to thrive with plant life, adding an air of tranquility.
As they passed suits of decorative armor lining the halls, Braze led Loomi toward the feast hall, where the soft glow of dimmed lights set the mood. Plush floor pillows surrounded low tables, and Braze glanced at them thoughtfully.
"Do you want to sit at the table, or would you prefer the pillows?" he asked, watching as the finishing touches were placed on the large feast table, laden with an impressive array of dishes.
The feast table stretched out in front of them, a grand display of culinary mastery that dazzled the senses. At the center, a beautifully cooked bird with crisp, golden-brown skin rested on a platter, its aroma rich and savory. Beside it was a grand display of perfectly glazed ham, glistening with sweet and smoky caramelization, promising to be tender and flavorful. Succulent steaks and prime rib cuts were arranged on silver platters, their juices pooling around them, while a stack of fall-off-the-bone ribs, lacquered in a dark, sticky glaze, invited with their smoky, melt-in-your-mouth scent.
To the side, a vibrant cranberry chutney, with ruby-red berries and citrus zest, added a tangy, sweet contrast to the richness of the meats. Bowls of dips in various colors and textures lined the table: creamy artichoke and spinach, roasted red pepper hummus, and a velvety truffle-infused cheese dip. Assorted fancy cheeses, ranging from sharp and crumbly aged varieties to soft, creamy ones, sat atop wooden boards, paired with freshly baked artisanal breads. The breads were a feast in themselves—crusty baguettes, rosemary focaccia, and soft rolls speckled with herbs and seeds.
For those with a sweet tooth, a selection of desserts gleamed under the soft candlelight. Warm chocolate chip muffins, their tops perfectly crisp with gooey centers, shared space with delicate pastries dusted in powdered sugar. Steamed and roasted vegetables, glistening with butter and herbs, added a touch of color—vibrant green beans, golden carrots, and earthy Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection.
Seafood lovers were not left wanting. Platters of lobster tails, glistening with melted butter, clams steamed open and arranged neatly, and oysters on the half shell offered a taste of the ocean. Small jars of caviar, gleaming black and red, sat nearby, ready to be paired with delicate crackers and lemon wedges.
The feast table was not only laden with savory delights but also presented a stunning array of fresh fruits, adding bursts of color and refreshing balance to the richness of the other dishes. A large crystal bowl overflowed with glistening berries—plump strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries, their vibrant hues catching the light. Juicy slices of watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew were carefully arranged alongside pineapple spears, their sweetness a perfect counterpoint to the savory meats.
Clusters of perfectly ripened grapes, red and green, draped elegantly across silver trays, while wedges of ruby-red pomegranate revealed their jewel-like seeds. Thinly sliced mangoes, papayas, and kiwi were paired with exotic dragon fruit, their vibrant colors creating a tropical flair. A platter of figs, halved to show their soft, sweet centers, sat next to a mound of ripe peaches and nectarines, their skins glowing under the soft candlelight.
For a final touch, whole oranges, blood oranges, and lemons were arranged artfully beside bowls of cherries and glossy apples, adding not only freshness but an irresistible invitation to indulge in nature's sweetness.
As Braze and Loomi took it all in, the feast felt like an event unto itself, a celebration of abundance and craft. Every dish, from the rich meats to the delicate desserts, had been prepared with the utmost care, inviting them to sit, enjoy, and indulge in the exquisite experience.