Chapter 92

Arya sat quietly, her senses coming alive as a train of maids and servants wheeled in their meal on different carts. The rich, savory scent of roast venison wafted through the air first, carrying hints of rosemary and garlic, mingling with the robust fragrance of slow-cooked stews.

As the lid was lifted from a large tureen, the earthy aroma of mushroom and barley soup rose, mingling with the delicate scent of thyme. Nearby, platters of grilled fish emitted a fresh, briny scent, enhanced by a squeeze of lemon and the faintest hint of dill. Freshly baked bread added its warm, yeasty smell, promising a soft and comforting texture.

The air was punctuated by the sharp tang of aged cheese, cutting through the richer, heavier scents with a crisp, nutty note. A final flourish came from the sweet, inviting aroma of spiced apple pie, its buttery crust and cinnamon filling providing a comforting end to the olfactory journey.

The steward, Sigurdson, came in last, after the train of servants, and