I woke before dawn with my head still pressed against Damian's shoulder. For one disoriented moment, I did not remember where I was, only that I was warm and safe. Then memory returned, sharp and unwelcome, and I pulled away before I could talk myself into staying still.
Damian stirred but did not wake. I dressed quickly in my training clothes and made my way to the courtyard. The routine steadied me. I moved through the forms my father had taught me, each movement sharp and deliberate. My injured leg ached, but I pushed through it.
By the time I finished, the first light of morning had reached the windows. Nessa was waiting at the courtyard entrance with a tray of food. Her hands were trembling.
"You are up early," I said.
"Could not sleep." She shifted her weight. "I needed to speak
