DAEDILLION
I paced the perimeter of the northeast tower, shadows responding to my agitation by twisting around my fingers like living ribbons. This meeting was necessary but dangerous—especially now. Every few seconds, I glanced over the parapet, scanning for any sign of Aiko.
I could have made this easier for her, pulled her through the dream realm and manifested her here in an instant, but dreamwalking left traces that Lord Kiyoshi's spies would detect. Better she climb the old way, even if it took longer.
The conversation I'd overheard between King Takeshi and his advisors still rang in my ears: "The Queen's containment spell is weakening. The new facility will be ready in three days. Until then, double the guards and strengthen the wards."
My jaw clenched at the memory. Aiko's fat
