Summary

In Chapter 26, Conn heads to the Dawn Palace. He considers why the Duchess might want to speak with him. He cannot decide if it is to help with something, such as magical decay, or whether he will be condemned for his locus magicalicus. As Conn arrives the the palace, he is apprehended by several guards. They take him to Captain Kerrn, who threatens him. She says that if Conn steps out of line even slightly, he will be taken into custody by the guards. He is then released and sent to meet with the Duchess.

The Duchess dismisses the guards so she and Conn are completely alone. She asks him about his stone and his relationship with Nevery. The Duchess insists that “Nevery is dangerous and is not to be trusted, by anyone” (286). She tells him about an incident 20 years ago where Nevery...