"You've been watching for quite a while," Beatrice's voice came from behind, gentler than usual.
"I was only… curious," Liora replied.
The older woman stepped beside her. "He rarely leaves without good reason."
Liora didn't answer.
Beatrice gave her a long glance. "You have your mother's quiet strength."
Liora turned sharply. "You knew my mother?"
There was a pause. "Not well. But I knew of her. Many did. Too many, perhaps."
Liora's voice was careful. "What do you mean?"
But Beatrice smiled faintly, as if brushing aside dust from an old book. "Nothing meant for today. Go tend to the infirmary. Cassian's there early again, asking questions."
In the infirmary, Cassian was indeed waiting. He had rolled up his sleeves and was speaking with one of the stable boys, his tone light, reassuring.
When he noticed Liora, he stood straighter. "I didn't expect to see you this early."
She moved to the shelves, retrieving a jar of balm. "Why not? This is my post."
