Chapter 123
We woke up before dawn. It wasn't a choice, but royal summons have a way of making sleep optional. Finn was already upright, lacing his boots with the methodical precision of a man prepping for battle. It was way too early for him to look that focused.
In contrast, Bran's eyes were bloodshot, and he looked like he hadn't slept more than an hour all night. But his armor still gleamed under torchlight, polished to a blinding shine. He leaned against the wall, sipping a mug of cold water with the distant intensity of a poet who hadn't found the words yet.
I, on the other hand, was still face-down on my pillow, bargaining with the universe for just five more minutes of sleep.
My stolen moments of bliss were ruined as the door slammed open. Laine strode in, all gold embroidery and morning glee like a hurricane in a crown.
"Time to go," he announced, far too cheerfully.
