CHAPTER 24: The Inheritance

Before dawn in the Kaul household, Hilo tends to toddler Niko while Kyanla prepares breakfast. Shae arrives, still unsettled by Niko’s sudden arrival months prior and by Eyni’s death. She and Hilo debate what to tell the clan: they will present Niko as Lan’s son born overseas. Hilo rejects any suggestion that he should have given Niko up.

Traveling in an unmarked car to avoid notice, they board Ven Sandolan’s yacht, the Inheritance, for a discreet meeting away from Mountain and No Peak eyes. Ven, joined by his son Haku, makes small talk before steering the conversation to Mountain politics. Hilo signals No Peak’s mistrust of Ayt Mada and interest in her eventual successor.

Ven criticizes Ayt Mada as a childless, errant leader who led the Mountain into scandal and a costly war. Hilo flatters the Ven family’s stature and implies support for a leadership transition. Ven demurs personally but transparently indicates Haku as the viable successor. Hilo insists he won’t break the formal truce, yet proposes mutual aid: Ven organizes a coup; No Peak supplies discreet financial inducements via Shae and, when needed, Fists to quell resistance.

Ven accepts the promise of No Peak friendship and backing, agreeing the change will require planning against Ayt’s loyal, jade-heavy inner circle. They part amicably, with Ven acknowledging No Peak’s fearsome reputation.

On the ride back, Shae vents about Ven’s arrogance. Hilo, elated, argues that encouraging Mountain infighting under Ayt will secure No Peak’s victory. Shae agrees to explore further ways to support the Ven family’s bid.