The transition from the hushed reverence of the Presentation to the boisterous celebration of the Solstice Gala was immediate and exhilarating. Torian led me through throngs of bowing elves, dwarves, fairies, satyrs, and other types of Fae I had no names for and into the Great Hall.
The Hall was a dazzling sight. Massive, carved pillars wrapped in holly and pine soared to the high ceiling, which was lit by dozens of shimmering suspended light orbs. Long tables groaned under the weight of a feast far exceeding bread and jam. Roasted fowl, steaming savory pies, exotic fruits, and flagons of amber-colored elven wine covered every surface.
The moment we entered, the air was filled with cheers. Torian was lifted, briefly, into the air by two boisterous guards. Laughing, he was set back on h
