Night descended over the outer court
The pale towers stayed lit, but the yard between them grew cold and bare. The lesser groups filtered in first. Those that remained huddled in lower voices and lingering looks. Lucian took up position near the inner wall with Sera, just as Istra had instructed.
"The waiting is disagreeable," said Sera, rubbing her palms together. "Not that I didn't expect it."
"It is better than being taken unawares."
"Is it?"
"Depending on what you are waiting for." Istra returned, tossing over the short cloak she had slung over one shoulder. Take it. The mid-plane goes colder than the lower cities at night.'
Sera adjusted the cloth with a breathy noise. 'Any news?'
'Authority has sent notice of a hearing claim by morning.' Istra's fingers curled around the edge of her cloak. 'Veyrn's broker circles the drain, and one old-seat messenger requested a private word before your hearing.'
Lucian turned completely towards her. "Asked or ordered?"'
