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The hostess glanced back, one brow raised curiously, but said nothing as she continued guiding us up the sweeping staircase to the exclusive second level.
“We’ve set up extra tables in the lounge to accommodate your party size,” she explained, pushing open the ornate doors.
The VIP area was even more lavish than I recalled, no expense spared. At the far end, my inner circle was already seated, chatting amiably amongst themselves. They looked up, faces lighting up at our arrival.
“I’ll leave you to it,” the hostess said politely before withdrawing. I made a mental note to tip her well later.
As Elara and I approached, my men stood respectfully to greet us. Alkard was there as well, Tessi at his side looking radiant. Elara seemed relieved to see another human woman, someone who could understand her unique situation.
“Back from the dead!” bellowed Thelev joyously, clapping me on the back.
“Can’t keep me down for long,” I laughed.
Sakkar gripped me in a crushing bear hug next. “Good to have you back, you ornery bastard.”
More hearty greetings followed until I gently drew Tessi forward. She and Elara clasped hands warmly.
“So wonderful to meet you,” said Tessi sincerely. “The red suits you beautifully, by the way.”
Elara beamed. “Thanks! I love the purple on you, too.”
“Oh, I think we’re going to get along famously,” declared Tessi. “Come sit by me, us humans should stick together!”
The two women gravitated happily toward each other. Alkard signaled a server for another round of drinks as we settled around the table. In the center sat a control panel to summon up an extensive holographic menu.
The curved booth was sumptuously appointed, fine leather and glowing ambient light fixtures. It was an oasis of luxury and privacy, the entirety of the second floor reserved just for us this evening. The restaurant staff knew when the Vinduthi arrived, it merited a special experience.
Over an hour passed enjoyably with drink flowing freely. But eventually Tessi spoke up, her eyes rolling slightly.
“Um, gentlemen? Do you mind if we actually order something to eat now?”
Ryrick burst into laughter, slapping his thigh. “Hell, I clean forgot normal folk need sustenance.”
Our raucous laughter echoed around the lounge. Alkard gave an indulgent smile.
“Order to your heart’s content, my dear. It’s on me tonight.”
I held up a hand. “Please, allow me. It’s only right that I provide on Elara’s celebratory night.” I smiled across the table at her glowing face.
Soon our table was laden with dish after exquisite dish prepared by the master chefs downstairs. A contented silence settled for a time as we ate and drank our fill.
Eventually Sakkar sat back, patting his lips with a monogrammed napkin. “If I may, I’d like to say a few words.”
He lifted his glass toward Elara. “There is a very special person here tonight that we all owe a great debt of gratitude.”
Elara looked taken aback. “Wait, me?”
“Yes, you, my dear,” Sakkar continued. “It’s clear you bring our Draven endless happiness. And not only that, you helped save his life when hope seemed lost.”
I raised my own glass in salute. “Hear, hear. She’s truly one of a kind.”
Elara blushed at the attention. “You all helped as much as me, really.”
Alkard spoke up next. “Elara, let me be the first to officially say, welcome to the family.”
Her cheeks colored further at his words. “It’s an honor to be here with you all tonight.” She stood, glass in hand. “Actually, I’d like to say something, too, if I may.”
“The floor is yours, my love,” I encouraged.
