“How soon?”
“Before dawn.”
Cole looked toward the stronghold layout.
“We seal the inner grounds, increase the nursery guard, and keep the civilians away from every exterior corridor.”
Malakai nodded.
The diversion remains viable. A smaller unit draws defenders toward the southern approach while the main team enters from the east.
Rhen studied the route.
“I take point.”
Cole’s brow lifted.
“That is the most exposed position.”
“Yes.”
The answer ended the discussion.
Rhen looked toward each brother.
“Leave nothing standing that can be used against Norse. Marcella stays alive until we know where Sule went and what she offered him.”
Dax’s attention remained on the empty chair.
“And if he made a deal?”
Rhen’s fingers tightened against the edge of the table.
“Then we determine its terms.”
Nothing in his face revealed what he would do if those terms required accepting Leena’s death for a second time.
* * *
Veya sat on the edge of the bed when Dax returned.
She had bathed and changed into a dark robe, but her hair remained damp and uncombed around her shoulders. The fever had receded, leaving her eyes clear and her movements steady.
Dax closed the door.
“You should be resting.”
“I have spent enough time unconscious.”
He remained near the door.
Veya watched him.
“What happened?”
“We attack before dawn.”
Her expression changed.
