In the dining room, Garius sat at the head of the table, exuding his usual commanding presence. Francesca sat to his right, while Lady Garcinia and Lady Phenelopie occupied the left side, with Eridith seated next to Francesca. The entire family, including Garius's sons and his only daughter, Athine, had gathered for breakfast.
Javier sat at the end of the table, as usual. Liana was on his right, carefully preparing his plate, while Gloria, seated on his left, poured him tea with her calm demeanor.
"Alf?" Garius called, his sharp voice cutting through the soft clinking of cutlery.
"Yes, my lord?" Alf responded, stepping forward slightly.
"Preparations for our journey?"
"It's done, my lord," Alf replied. "The first and second teams have already started moving. If there are any obstacles, they'll be handled swiftly."
"Good," Garius said with a nod. "Make sure they're ready. I don't want to lose any of them—or you."