The midday feast on the High Belvedere was in full swing. Just then, the iron gate of the watermen’s lift creaked open. Servants in silver-trimmed livery were carrying platters of roast venison, poached pears, and carafes of spiced wine between the tiered velvet benches where the aldermen sat enjoying the pale autumn sunshine. High above them, the emerald dome of Sorell’s water shield still hung suspended, glistening like spun sugar in the mountain breeze.
A hush fell over the upper pavilion as Pella Rook, Korr Var. Eren Tal marched through the archway onto the marble walkway. They didn’t wear banquet robes. Eren’s leather apron was stiff with river silt. Korr carried his heavy land-mapper’s chain over one shoulder. And Pella carried the sealed tin map tube under her arm. Behind them walked Apprentice Corvin, his student badge pinned openly to his cloak.
Master Davin Sorell frowned, setting down his crystal goblet with an irritated click. ‘Candidate Rook! This assembly is a private civic celebration authorized by the Senate! Ditch mechanics have no business intruding upon an academy banquet!’
Councilor Vesk raised her hand, silencing the high judge with a cold, level look. ‘Candidate Rook is the sworn backup coordinator of the Lower Reach, High judge. She has the right of presentation under the Emergency City law. Step forward, Pella.’
