#Chapter 137: Planning the Future

Ember The first warning comes before lunch, when a runner pulls me out of training with news that Alexander has collapsed in council. By the time I reach his chambers, the healers have already cleared the room. He is sitting upright, irritated by his own body, and far more tired than he would ever admit. The healer says stress and exhaustion, nothing immediate, but enough to force the succession into motion. That is the part that changes the air in the room. Not because anyone is surprised, but because everyone is suddenly aware of the shape of the next year. On the way back to our quarters, Kaine says very little until the door shuts behind us. Then he sits down like the weight has finally caught up with him and admits he thought he had more time. I take his hands and tell him he has time enough to learn, but not time enough to waste pretending the world will wait forever. He gives me a look that is equal parts fear and relief. That night, after Clara is asleep, we sit with th