Summary

In part two of the novel, Gaven debriefs with his second-in-command, Erel Estel, about the state of his empire in his absence. He also asks her about some of the cases Fangbane had assigned to him, including one involving an organization called the Blessed. Erel warns Gaven about the dangers of getting involved with the secret organization and explains that they are a society that fantasizes about a different world structure, similar to the Knights. Despite his discovery, Gaven keeps this information to himself and rallies the Knights to handle a protest in Oban.

Assigned to protect the Bishop from Altha Hills against a crowd of angry protestors in Oban, the Knights meet Laikos, the Bishop's first acolyte, as well as Region Leader Hilda and Commander Heisa of Oban. They successfully escort the Bishop and apprehend the assassins but are shocked when Heisa turns against them. She later claims not to have control over her actions, similar to how Gaven lost control during the Althaean Siege. The assassins mysteriously killed themselves before they could be interrogated.

As Gaven continues training Mirari, he notices her distracted state of mind. He orders her to take a break from training and missions to study the Paragon's Conduct. Meanwhile, Dorain learns that Hime was forced to return to Altha Hills due to her father’s disapproval of her joining the Knights. Gaven, as a fellow Althaean, tries to defuse the situation with Hime’s father, the High Priest, but the High Priest undermines Gaven and guilts him over the Althaean Siege and Mecate's death. Shiba, more reserved than ever, refrains from arguing with the High Priest and instead collaborates with Gaven to expose the Bishop over stolen gems he had found. Outraged by the Bishop’s lies, the High Priest arrests him and understands why Hime is determined to seek justice as Mecate did. He grants her permission to join the Knights.

Meanwhile, Fangbane receives a letter from the Council expressing their disapproval of the Knights' vigilante actions and requesting their disbandment. Gaven questions Fangbane about his connection to the Blessed and the true nature of the Knights. Fangbane denies any association between the Knights and the Blessed, emphasizing that their purpose is to stop such evil. He also reveals that he only defended Gaven during his trial because Mirari struck a deal with him, and he needs Mirari, believing that she possesses a unique power that could be crucial in the fight against the Blessed.

Analysis

Hime and Dorain share a deep understanding of the challenges posed by toxic family ties. Dorain sympathizes with Hime's difficult family situation and encourages her to confront her father, drawing from his own experiences. However, Hime grapples with the repercussions of defying her position and duty as a princess. She carries the weight of Mecate's death and feels torn between her longing for independence and her sense of responsibility. Despite their different circumstances, both characters share a common desire to break free from the constraints imposed by their family ties and forge their own identities.

Another noteworthy development is the personality switch between Gaven and Shiba. Shiba, previously characterized by violence and arrogance, now employs reason and compassion when dealing with the High Priest. On the other hand, Gaven seeks to challenge the High Priest in a duel, driven by a desire to assert his dominance and defend his honor. This role reversal serves to highlight the growth of their characters and the evolution of their relationship. Both characters carry the guilt of failing to prevent Mecate's death; however, instead of assigning blame, they set aside their grievances and collaborate in the present, driven by their commitment to do better for Mecate's sister, Hime. This partnership exemplifies their growth as characters, as they put away their rivalry and prioritize improving their present selves rather than dwelling on the past.

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