Chapter 10

Evie vents to Rebecka Erring in the kitchen, masking hurt over Trystan’s withdrawal and the chaos after Nura’s starlight outburst at Lyssa. Edwin’s treats and Lyssa’s buoyant entrance briefly restore normalcy, while mentions of Tatianna’s care for Keeley signal recovery. Evie privately wrestles with guilt over the caves, her father’s escape, and her feelings for Trystan, clinging to the unneeded antidote that once could have saved her.

Startled by a polite blond “repairman,” Evie accidentally shatters the antidote vial. He claims he is there to fix stained glass, and Evie, uneasy but civil, directs him upstairs and leaves. In the hall, Blade mentions the real repair crew is already working above, instantly alerting Evie that the man is an impostor.

Evie races back to the kitchen to find the stranger prying at her favorite stained glass. She draws her dagger and orders him away. He produces a double-edged blade and postures threateningly. To gain an edge, Evie feigns compliance, then throws hot cauldron brew in his face.

The intruder snatches Evie by her braid, slamming her against the wall, and attacks with his weapon. Evie screams as the confrontation turns violent, confirming a targeted infiltration inside Massacre Manor and leaving the outcome hanging as Blade runs to fetch Trystan.