Chapter 40

In the balloon, Sage panics after Trystan shoves Fowler overboard, but Trystan coolly claims it is punishment for poaching his employee. He manages the balloon’s controls while deflecting Sage and Evie’s outrage with dry explanations and reveals surprising familiarity with aerostat mechanics.

Fowler returns by flying into the basket, confirming he can survive the fall. He unveils his “improved flying balloon” and romanticizes democratizing flight, which charms Sage but infuriates Trystan, who demands to know the others’ whereabouts. Fowler admits he lured them aloft to ask a favor and withhold the wand unless The Villain attends his dinner party.

As Fowler descends the balloon to his sprawling house built into a giant tree, he pushes the timetable: the dinner starts in an hour. They land on a balcony and reunite with Tatianna and Clare; awkward sibling contact passes between Clare and Trystan. Trystan notices his magic feels distant, likely due to Fowler’s residence, Sage’s proximity, or the long-running curse.

Fowler announces a themed event with outfits prepared. Trystan bristles, but Sage links arms with Fowler, feigning enthusiasm to secure a tour and a closer look at the wand. As Fowler leads Sage inside, Trystan, Tatianna, and Clare follow under the butler’s guidance, heading toward an inevitable, perilous dinner where social games may turn deadly.