The Gathering

The Planning

XXXIX. The Kitchen Assembly

Alice stood at the stove, attending to something that smelled of eggs and fresh thyme. She had returned to her Victorian dress—the practical clothing had been a temporary concession—but had tied an apron over it with the particular care of someone who took kitchen work seriously. Steam rose from the pan.

"The others are about." Alice did not turn. The spatula moved in her hand with practiced rhythm. "Kamadan and Kash are studying the rest of the house. They mentioned wanting to map the adjacent spaces before we proceed with other investigations."

"Map the impossible geometry," Mia muttered. "Of course."

"The impossible often proves merely difficult once properly examined." Alice set plates on the table. Porcelain clinked against wood. "Sit. Eat. Emma will be