Chapter Nine

Arin examines the dead soldier and reveals hair evidence that led him to Sylvia, concluding only a Jasadi’s power could have killed him. He then offers Sylvia a bargain: train and serve as his Champion for the Alcalah, and afterward gain freedom, wealth, and fame that would shield her identity.

Sylvia doubts his honor, so Arin outlines deterrents to flight: as Champion she would be protected only if she wins, or Felix will pursue and likely kill her. He also reveals leverage—Sefa (Sayali), the High Counselor’s estranged stepdaughter, and Marek (Caleb), a deserter—could be executed if found, effectively binding Sylvia to cooperate.

Arin claims other Jasadis, responsible for civilian massacres, are hunting Sylvia while he hunts them, calling her “fate’s choice.” After he leaves, guards Wes and Jeru blindfold and escort Sylvia through woods to a concealed site. Banter reveals Arin’s rigid self-control and their loyalty.

The trio descends via a collapsing ground mechanism into an extensive, ancient tunnel network in Essam. Alabaster, light-emitting tiles line the passages, and Resar script marks a massive door. Inside, a looping illusion recreates Usr Jasad’s courtyard, showing Niyar and Palia, which pierces Sylvia with nostalgia and loss.

Wes assigns Sylvia a sparse room near a kitchen and training center, warning of a single monitored exit. Alone, Sylvia maps a possible escape but recognizes the drop and unknown location complicate flight; she suspects Arin exaggerates the Jasadi threat yet refuses to trust him. Dressed in Nizahl’s black and violet, she steels herself, vowing defiance.