5:49 AM — Sector Q, Dewfell RiseMorning dawned with the smell of moss and iron. Sector Q's steep ridge received the first splash of golden mist, running sideways through arched trellises long reoccupied by vine.Elira stood where the slope started, her boots firm on wet stone. The slope wasn't dangerous, but it needed attention."Too soon for stumbles," Caelan whispered behind her, realigning his balance pack.She extended her hand silently, not because he required it—but because the way, today, suggested dual steps.Side by side, they climbed the incline.---7:20 AM — Sector S, Braidharvest CourtyardThe courtyard was busy, but not frantic.Fiber bundles had been collected from eastward reed terraces. Young teams pulled the dew-soaked strands into rope. Some ropes would be used for lifting. Others for tying down. One, someone breathed, was to be laid ceremoniously at a boundary line.Elira sat in a quiet cluster, braiding with sure fingers. A girl next to her stumbled over the rhyt
Last Updated : 2025-08-02 Read more