“You look tired.”

“Thank you for noticing. I feel ready to drop dead.”

“So dramatic.”

Finn made a show of pretending to faint, leaning against the silo wall for support. Claws growled.

“Don’t upset my Cat,” I said, although I could not help smiling. “Can you drag yourself to the city please?”

“So … far…”

“Enjoy sleeping in the Fields, then.”

“That sounds pretty appealing right about now.” He straightened. “But I’ve got a shift at the Candle tonight, so unfortunately it’s not an option.”

“Oh. You don’t need to walk halfway across the city if…”

He waved off my suggestion. “I want to. Don’t worry, I’m just whining. Let’s go.”

Claws rose reluctantly. Ahead of us, the city walls stretched tall and shining, and we followed the path that led to Ceyrun.

CHAPTER

THREE

The Council Building was situated in the Minor East Quadrant, the wealthiest sector of the city. It stood four storeys high, overlooking the college grounds and the Department of Memories. The old building projected an air of stately grandeur, with its yellow stone walls and fine latticework, its mythic friezes, its jutting balconies and sloping gullwing roof. The oldest wing of the building was home to the Conclave of Representatives, and dated back to the Great Fire of the Ash Disciple rebellion almost four hundred years ago.

I seldom had reason to visit the Council Building. In fact, I had not seen the interior since my induction as an Acolyte last year.

“I’m not sure how long I’ll be.” I gazed up at the carved pillars. Sisters were leaving the building, work concluded for the day. “If the Council is in session, it could be a while.”

“I’ll take that as a hint,” said Finn. “Want to drop by the Candle afterwards?”

“It’s been a long day.”

“I thought you might say that.” A strange expression passed over his face. “El, I’ve been thinking…”

He trailed off.

“What is it?”

“Probably nothing. Forget it.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah.” He smiled. “Yeah, I’m sure. Listen, are you free tomorrow? Millie has plans.”

“What kind of plans?”

“It’s Daje’s birthday. I’m supposed to convince you to attend. So, you know, please come.”

I laughed. “Convincing.”

“I try. So?”

“I don’t know, would Daje really want me there? We aren’t exactly close.”

Finn shook his head. “It’s fine, it’s just a casual thing in the Gardens. I get the impression it’s more for Millie’s benefit anyway.”

“Still…”

“He won’t mind.”

I thought for a moment. Sisters were granted a day off after any pilgrimage, and although I wanted to see my mother, that wouldn’t take more than an hour.

“All right,” I said, still a little uncertain. “If you’re sure it’s okay.”

Finn grinned. “Great. Meet me at the graveyard at third bell?”

“Fourth?”

“Sure.” He leaned forward quickly and kissed me on the cheek. “See you then.”

He was walking away from me before I could think of anything to say. My cheek burned, and I felt, suddenly, as if the eyes of the whole city were upon me.