The fourth line opened the archive door, though the city bells interrupted before the Warden could lift the white mask from its lock.
Three different alarms crossed the registry at once, each carrying a separate route image through the floor.
The images showed refugee carts sinking, an expedition bridge splitting, and city riders surrounded by black-backed beasts.
Sera turned toward the three lines and named the crisis. "The hearts have activated together, and the command layer is sending the same emergency order through every district."
Hajin opened his hand toward the table, then stopped when he saw the three positions divide around him.
"We name the people first, then assign the roads," he said, "because I cannot stand in three places by wanting to be there."
Eirwen's twelve Shards brightened as she chose her own ground. "The western bridge carries our expedition and the refugees behind it, so I take the bridge before the roots break."
