When it was finally time to open the bags, everyone gathered in the living room like excited kids waiting for a holiday. Cushions were dragged to the floor, Milo brought a bowl of roasted snacks, and Karl couldn't stop bouncing in place as if he were waiting for a surprise magic show.
"Open that one first!" Karl pointed with glowing eyes at the biggest bag Ruby had placed near the couch.
Ruby laughed softly and looked at Julian, who nodded and handed the bag over. "This one's for you," Julian said, watching as Karl's face lit up like the sun.
Karl tore through the packaging like it was a treasure chest. Inside, he found a deep green robe with golden embroidery stitched across the sleeves and collar. Beneath it were wrapped candies from the city, a journal with gold-edged pages, and even a pen shaped like a little sword.
"For me?" Karl's mouth hung open. He stood up and held the robe against himself, twirling like a model on stage. "Do I look like a ghost of status now?"
