Seraphine's POV
The inner wing woke in its usual strict rhythm. Grey light rose from the hearth, water trembled only when I touched it, and the dark wall panels absorbed all sound. Cassian stood at the threshold and delivered the morning rules with his usual short clarity:
“Half-jugs for water. Open the door on the bell. Stay this side of the armory. Watch Darius’s movement. If he comes toward us, say his name.”
Zoey worked behind me, already anticipating what I would need before I moved.
The first hours went smoothly. The cup reached Darius’s elbow just as he glanced up from the map. His cloak, mended yesterday, hung softer across the shoulder. When I placed it on the hook, he gave a brief look—he saw that I noticed what needed noticing. The fear inside me didn’t vanish, but it settle
