[Lavinia's Pov—Imperial Palace—Lavinia's Chamber]
Night fell over the imperial palace like a slowly held breath. The corridors were quieter than usual. Even the guards' footsteps sounded softer, as if the palace itself sensed that something unseen was approaching.
I stood near the balcony of my chamber, watching the city lights shimmer beneath the dark sky.
Haldor was behind me.
Close.
Not touching, but close enough that I could feel his warmth.
"Do you believe in premonitions?" I asked quietly.
He hesitated. "I believe in instincts."
I turned toward him. "Then what does yours say?"
He met my gaze, "That the next move will not come from where we are watching."
I smiled faintly. "You're learning too fast."
He stepped closer. "You taught me to watch shadows instead of crowns."
I exhaled slowly and turned back to the window, staring at the sleeping city.
