Chapter 46

Morning after reconciling with Acker, Beau catches them together. Acker asks Beau to look after Jovie, promises training tomorrow, and leaves. Beau dismisses the guards and explains the regents wanted Jovie collared with a suppressor, but Acker insisted on using his men instead. Staff and courtiers eye Jovie warily; Beau urges her not to cower.

Beau takes Jovie to the kitchens, where the staff warm under Beau’s familiarity. They then tour the largely underused palace and observe soldiers training. Jovie spots Acker in the courtyard; Beau scoffs at the men’s attention and redirects Jovie to the library.

In the soaring library, Beau introduces Greta—her mother and the librarian—who eagerly helps. Greta leads them to a hidden archive, providing an ancient tome on bonds and a history of light wielders. Jovie studies accounts of matches: some harmonious, others destructive; Heirs typically have one gift and at most one bond.

From the balcony, Jovie notices the striking Irina—the princess of Strou—and learns from Beau that Irina is at court. Realizing Acker never told her, Jovie’s hurt flares into anger. She returns to her room simmering, where she finds Acker’s gift: a sketchbook and note asking her to draw him something.

Jovie, furious and overwhelmed, retreats to a bath as her hands glow with emotion. Beau gently warns that Jovie’s choices will break more than one heart, hinting at looming romantic and political fallout.