The courtyard emptied slowly, and the guards on duty slowly dispersed.
Helios turned away first.
"Escort them to the east wing," he ordered coolly, already retreating into the palace. "Cassius is not to leave the grounds without my knowledge. Elaine, you may attend to him should he need your help."
The words were measured and controlled, but Candice heard the threat beneath them.
Cassius said nothing as they walked. His grip on Candice's hand became too tight, his palm cold despite the lingering warmth of her magic. Each step looked heavier than the last, as though the weight of the palace pressed down on his shoulders, on his spine, on his very breath.
Only when the doors to Candice's chambers closed behind them did he finally stagger.
"Cassius....." she called out lifting an arm over her neck and shoulder.
