The ward light buzzed overhead with a sterile rhythm. Lin sat on the window sill, hands folded neatly in her lap. Outside, morning touched the city with a thin, colorless sheen. Even the clouds looked muted, as though scrubbed clean of emotion.
Cassian entered without knocking.
He moved efficiently, like a man with a schedule. A document folder was tucked under one arm, and his words came with the perfectly practiced politeness. "Miss Roen, the Councilors would like a brief statement prepared. Nothing formal - just a few lines acknowledging your safety and reaffirming confidence in the Guardian Accord."
Lin blinked at him.
He didn't wait for a response. "The speechwriters have a draft. You only need to approve it. You can have a look at it after you sign it."
She nodded once, taking the pen that Cassian handed over, signing the approvement.
