The courtyard beyond the gates buzzed with quiet activity, servants and guards moving with practiced efficiency despite the obvious tension that seemed to hang over the entire fortress like a heavy fog.
Clara held Leo's hand firmly as Dorian led them across the stone courtyard, aware of the curious, suspicious glances following their every step. Word of a rogue healer's arrival had clearly spread faster than Dorian anticipated, and few of the wolves they passed bothered to hide their skepticism as they studied Clara's travel worn clothing and the small boy walking beside her.
She noted the way the Citadel's inhabitants carried themselves, straight backed and precise, everything about their bearing marking a court accustomed to strict order and hierarchy. It was a far cry from the loose,
