Dawn broke cold over Thornwick. Raze stood at the warehouse window, watching the city transform. Royal banners hung from every building. Guards in ceremonial armor lined the streets. The capital's authority had arrived overnight, remaking the city in its image.
Behind him, his team prepared in silence. Kael organized documents with shaking hands. Mariabel adjusted her formal dress for the third time. Aslan sat motionless, silver eyes reflecting lamplight.
"She'll know," Kael said quietly. "Everything. My unauthorized treatments. The black market materials. All of it."
"She'll know we saved forty three children," Raze countered. "That has to matter."
"Does it?" Mariabel's flames flickered nervously on her fingertips. "We broke laws. Destroyed property. Killed people. Even if they deserved it."
The door opened.
Crack.
Sophie burst through, Mary following apologetically. The little girl's face was determined despite the early hour.
