Honey had left the city two years ago; Hassa was the one to guide them out. The Embers didn’t know it, though, and Hassa simply slipped into her role at the Keep when she needed to. Hassa had a dozen aliases just like it across different Ember households. Once she changed her kente sash around her stomach, the Embers never noticed the difference between one Ghosting and another.
The chief of chambers waved her through after she was satisfied with Hassa’s signature.
That was the thing about being undocumented: Hassa could get anywhere, and the Embers had no idea.
—
They clean thelibrary every fourth day between third and second strike in the afternoon. The Warden of Duty lets them in, and an officer stands guard while the cleaning is completed.
Anoor watched, openmouthed, a small frown between her brows while she tried with all her might to understand Hassa.
They were in the dining room of Anoor’s chambers, Gorn having disappeared to the kitchens below while Sylah set the table. Hassa appeared shortly after Gorn left.
“When will they next clean it?”
Tomorrow.
“What’s Hassa saying?” Anoor whined.
“But how do we get past the officer?” Sylah asked.
Hassa shrugged her small shoulders. Why don’t you kill him? Isn’t thatwhat the Sandstorm would do? Hassa’s lips quirked.
“Shut. Up.”
You’re the one who is so desperate to join them.
Sylah frowned at her friend’s disapproval.
“Going back to the matter at hand. Will the other Ghostings let us in? And not tell anyone?”
Of course, who could we tell anyway?Her eyes glinted.
“Sylah, please fill me in.” Anoor’s whine had progressed to a high-pitched drone.
I want to see the map.
“Why?”
You found it in the ruins in the Dredge, in a Ghosting dwelling, yes?
“I did.”
I want to see it.
“Anoor, will you get the map?”
Anoor gave Sylah an angry glance.
“I’ll fill you in, I promise. It’s just…we don’t have much time until Gorn gets back.”
Anoor grumbled something about being left out as she ducked out of the room.
What was in the letter that Marigold gave you?Hassa suddenly asked.
“Not sure. I just have to deliver it.”
My friend died getting that information. The Ember strangled her in her bed. Turin watched through the wall and collected the information. She then let the man go.