Han led the range test from the Sea Hall courtyard to a harbor lantern post. Pema checked the oil and alignment at each station. Ruo watched the path for boats and called out when a skiff crossed the channel.
“This is the outer post,” Pema said. “The next relay is halfway to the cliff. The lantern housing was repaired after the squall, but the shutter still sticks.”
Yan stood beside the courtyard relay. Qinghe prepared her notes. “We’ll test one projection first. I’ll record what it can see and how much energy it takes.”
Yan formed the branch. The projection followed the prepared chain to the harbor post. Its view was clear enough to read the signal board and identify the skiff tied below. The boat had one white sail, patched at the corner.
“Can you read the small writing?” Han called.
“The large signal is clear. The lower note is blurred.”
Pema adjusted the midway lamp. “The lens was set for a shorter route. I can open the shutter more, but then the flame will be exposed to wind.”
“Try one turn,” Han said. “We’re here to measure, not improve the whole post.”
