The cold stones of the Nightfort echoed with footsteps as Dannel moved swiftly through the dim corridors, cloak pulled tight against the biting wind. The task was simple — clear the ice from the battlements before the next patrol. Spotting a younger black brother struggling with a heavy bundle of firewood, she stepped closer.

“Need an extra hand with that?” she asked quietly, voice steady but cautious. “It’s easier together, especially here.”