The training yard was quieter than usual.
Nyssa stretched alone near the equipment rack. The younger warriors paired off for drills. Lois called out corrections from the sidelines. But the space where Aria usually stood, the corner near the water barrel where she warmed up before sparring, was empty.
"She's not coming," Nyssa said when Rowan approached. "I knocked twice. She didn't answer."
"Did you try the door?"
"It's bolted, from the inside." Nyssa lowered her staff. "She's never missed a morning session. Not once."
Rowan looked at the empty corner. The water barrel was covered in frost. He was quiet for a moment. Then he said, "Come with me."
"Where?"
"To her room but, let’s branch to the kitchen."
In the kitchen Gretta sitting close to the fire. A pot of porridge sat on the he
