The Inverted Cup had returned to its elegant facade, but beneath the polished surface, Veylith's consciousness spread across the capital like a spider's web. She sat at her usual table, wine untouched, her eyes unfocused as information flowed through dozens of puppet perspectives.
David entered precisely at the appointed time, his measured steps betraying none of the physical strain she could sense radiating from him.
"The military withdrawal has begun," Veylith reported without preamble. "Half the palace guard received reassignment orders this morning. By tomorrow night, security will be at its weakest point in decades."
David took his seat, relief evident despite his controlled expression. "And the secret entrance?"
