17 West

At dawn in the Lakes, Wulf prepares to leave. Mara meets him, dismissing fears of a haithwood curse and urging self-forgiveness. Wulf admits he defied the Knight of Fellowship, Regny, through a foolish dalliance and fears he is unworthy of his chosen virtuous path. Mara reminds him of generosity and family support, and Wulf rides out.

In the Dearn Chamber, Glorian breakfasts with Adela, Julain, and Helisent. Adela nurses an extracted tooth; Julain reveals an impending betrothal to Lord Osbert Combe, stirring Glorian’s unease about marriages. Sir Bramel summons Glorian to King Bardholt, who invites her to ride pillion despite her broken arm.

They reach the secluded Twiring Pools beneath Sorway Fell. Bardholt presses Glorian to voice her true fears about marriage and sovereignty. He frames rulership as accountability and battle by other means, affirming Sabran’s daily struggle. Glorian admits terror of losing self and body to duty. Bardholt shares his own pre-wedding fears and permits that intimacy may or may not be shared, centering Glorian’s choice.

Glorian agrees to marry Magnaust Vatten, provided he returns to Mentendon after an heir. Bardholt gifts her a sword with ice emeralds and an ivory hilt carved from his throne, linking her to Hróth and naming her Princess of Hróth, though she will not reign there.

Back at the gatehouse, Glorian speaks with Master Glenn—Wulf—about siblings, succession, and her new sword. They discuss her limited claim to Hróth under Sabran’s will and promise a future spar. As Bardholt’s entourage departs, Glorian bids farewell to Wulf and her father.

Turning back toward the courtyard, Glorian grows dizzy, collapses, and tastes metal in her mouth, leaving her condition suddenly in question.