The pine forest suddenly let go of the world. After the muffled carpet of needles, the wheels rattled against the stones, the horses’ hooves struck sharp against the cobblestones of the courtyard, and the resinous scent of the air was replaced by the cool smell of limestone, along with something utterly ordinary: forge-fire, damp halters, the steam of well-boiled soup. Through the slit of the tarp I first saw only a white-grey wall, then the edges of banners, a water trough, a gate guard who straightened reflexively when the carriage rolled under the arch.
Cassian rode ahead, exchanged a silent sign with the gate, then gestured to the driver: stop. The carriage gave a soft nod, and I held my breath inside, leaning on your cloak, because the bandage reminded me with every jolt. Darius sat
