The room was already occupied by several members of the staff, most of whom were eating quickly before beginning their duties. A pair of attendants discussed the previous evening's clients near one of the windows, while an older woman sat alone reviewing a small ledger between bites of bread.
Ray collected his breakfast from the serving counter and settled at an empty table.
The meal was simple but considerably better than what the men working on the open floor usually received, consisting of warm bread, lightly seasoned eggs, and a bowl of mild broth.
He ate without rushing, occasionally listening to the conversations around him.
Lira remained nearby, answering questions from passing staff members and occasionally checking whether he had finished.
When Ray finally pushed his empty plate aside, she approached the table.
"Ready?"
"Whenever you are."
"Then come along. Lady Seris has a busy morning, and I'd rather not give her another reason to complain."
