The two made their way through the banquet hall, where the scene around them resembled an oil painting that would never fade.
From the perspective of a human noble, the banquet was nothing short of flawless. The gentlemen were all tall and powerfully built, with lavishly decorated ceremonial longswords at their waists. Their conversation was refined and courteous, punctuated by the occasional clink of silver goblets.
The noblewomen were elegant beauties, dressed in sumptuous, layered gowns supported by hoops, with jewels and gold ornaments adorning their necks and hair. Now and then, they covered their faces with their hands and laughed softly, like tinkling wind chimes. Their skirts rustled against the marble floor with the whisper of silk.
Even the male and female servants moving to and fro with refreshments were attractive young people. Each held a broad silver tray in one hand, laden with luxurious food.
Tiny droplets clung to the crystalline white flesh of chilled lobster. Slices of smoked salmon gleamed with amber oil. Aged Rothé steaks had been grilled to just the right shade of brown, and capons seasoned with pine nut wine gave off a rich aroma...
The scents of candle wax, perfumed powder, and roasted meat mingled in the air. Together with the beautiful music and the bustle of clinking glasses and conversation, they created the sweet, heady atmosphere unique to a lavish banquet.
A young maid stopped beside Renato with a silver dish and dipped into a slight curtsy, her skirt sweeping a graceful arc across the floor. She asked respectfully:
"Sir, would you care for a dish of caviar?"
Renato's gaze lingered on the dish of glossy black pearls for a few seconds. He deliberately touched the caviar lightly with his fork without taking any, then shook his head and politely declined:
"Ah,