Summary

On the brink of death in the forest, Mirari is saved by Salathiel. Without offering an explanation for his five-year absence, Salathiel takes her to a secluded cabin in Valenia to recover. There, Mirari discovers that the cabin belongs to Councilor Julie. Salathiel reveals that Julie had saved his life and admits that she is pursuing her own interests. He explains that Julie is aware of the Defiants and their divergence from the rest of the Blessed, and she needs Mirari’s help to stop them.

Meanwhile, the Council and the Knights gather at the Heart to grapple with the aftermath of Eoin’s escape. The conversation shifts to Mirari, now branded a traitor for aiding Eoin and the Blessed. Gaven details the battle at Aias, asserting that Mirari couldn’t have survived and vows to recapture Eoin. After leaving the Hearth, Gaven...