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She shakes her head, and I wobble up a grin.

“I’m guessing this has something to do with your late-night escapades?” she teases, one brow arched.

“How did you know?”

“You weren’t as sneaky as you thought. I tried to follow you—until I tripped over Florentius in the yard. He landed in a muddy puddle and I’ve never seen anyone so horrified in my entire life.” Her laugh is infectious. “I couldn’t stop giggling, even after he—”

Her story is cut short when an akla arrives, summoning me to Frederica’s study. My heart quivers as I see a letter in her hand, bearing a seal—my father’s seal. I tear the letter open and unfold the brief message. I had sent word right after the first shake, to let my family know I was safe and to inquire about their well-being.

My breath catches as I read: nothing to worry about, but Mother hit her head during the shake.

Panic surges through me.

He didn’t help Lucetta. Would he have helped...?

“I need to go home,” I say urgently.

We leave within the hour. Nicostratus offers to ferry us back to the capital and I’m thankful, beyond thankful. He’s saved me again. He’s always saving me. Perhaps heisthat someone I’ve wanted in my life. Someone kind, someone to trust. Yes. This must be what I want.

By late afternoon, I’m rushing up the busy canal bank.

“Cael,” Nicostratus calls, catching up.

“Sorry, I—”

“You’re worried about your mother.”

I nod, unable to speak.

“Go,” he says gently. “Meet me on the bell bridge during the lovelight festival. Six o’clock?”

I gulp and... nod. Then I sprint up the bank to the road.

Akilah struggles to keep pace, and I lose her at the gates. Two of my brothers are in the courtyard. They’re surprised to see me, but I ignore their calls and dash to my mother’s chambers.

The room is dim; draperies block the light. I shut the door quietly and approach her bed. Her face is pale except for a dark bruise on her forehead. I gently push her hair back and check her pulse. She’s been in and out of consciousness, enduring severe headaches.

Tears well up as I begin a medius spell for her head trauma, channelling it into the acupoints along her scalp. “Why did you marry him? Why leave your family, your kingdom, forthis?”

She moans softly.

“Rest. Just rest.”

After ten minutes, her breathing begins to ease.

The door bursts open, and Father storms in. My anger flares, but I control it, finishing the spell.

He yanks me away from Mother, glaring. “She was recovering. She would’ve been fine.”

“She was in pain,” I argue, standing up. “There might’ve been long-term effects if—”

“When will you understand? These spells could kill you, kill us all.”

I’m overwhelmed by memories of River and the people of Castorvra. Those twelve would have died today if... And Mother... she’s mymother. She has always cared for me, given me everything she could. How could I not do the same for her?

I meet Father’s gaze. There’s no need for words. I turn away, kiss Mother’s hand, and walk out, leaving Father staring after me simmering with silent fury.

Akilah has prepared my room with a plate of cold cuts, but I have no appetite. I’m brimming with restless energy. I need to do something.