#Chapter 48 Organized Chaos

I finalize the security plan the evening before the ball. The plan is simple with the the coverage layered and overlapping through the galleries and courtyard in tight rotations. I’ve reviewed each point twice, then again, making adjustments to crowd flow and guest entry routes. Now I stand outside the Captain’s office, plans in hand. I knock once. “Enter.” He glances up as I step inside. He waves me forward and for once I don’t sense any hostility from the man. “You’re here about the security layout?” “Yes, sir,” I say, keeping my tone neutral. “Per protocol. You’ll find my breakdown of posts and patrol timing included. I’ve also accounted for blind spots along the north terrace and courtyard wall.” He takes the packet and flips through the first few pages. There’s a long silence, and I wait for a critique. Instead, he gives a short nod. “Looks solid.” My shoulders stiffen slightly. “You’ve accounted for the stairwells?” he asks, still reading. “Yes. Two guards rota