Chapter 37. Now: Luca

Vale gathers Centurions to tally losses after the bombardment. Reports confirm three watchtowers remain operational, crucial for artillery, while only six Lower City structures have collapsed—yet casualties remain unknown. Observing untouched Illyrium towers and a spared Citadel district, Luca infers Valshad’s precision and the Consul’s strategy to bargain with grain and Priestess Ophelius.

Roskia confronts Vale and Luca, claiming their restraint enabled Valshad’s advance and urging an immediate crossing to execute the Consul and Magistrates. Vale concedes they should have pushed weeks earlier but insists they must first secure the gates before deciding the district’s fate, signaling a hardening stance.

As they move through the smoke-filled streets, Luca challenges Vale, fearing sanction for mass executions. Their argument erupts: Vale accuses Luca of craving revolution without sacrifice and of prioritizing Maris above all, while Luca warns Vale not to force a choice that would turn them against each other. The exchange exposes a widening fracture in their alliance.

Théo arrives with Asinia, drawing Vale’s fury for being absent when Vale nearly died. Théo endures the confrontation and delivers a falcon’s message sealed by Valshad. Vale breaks the seal and reads the demand for a meeting. With their position weakened, Vale resolves to accept, acknowledging they have little choice.

In the uneasy calm that follows, Vale apologizes for using Maris against Luca, and both tacitly accept the truth of their conflicting loyalties. Vale asks Luca to accompany him to the parley, and Luca agrees, while they both anticipate Valshad’s pursuit of vengeance.