10 West

Glorian savors time with King Bardholt, dining beside him and hearing tales of Hróthi feats. He introduces Wulfert Glenn, a housecarl who once played with Glorian in childhood, rekindling hazy memories. Wulf explains his service and mentions Regny of Askrdal, while Bardholt beams with pride in Wulf’s promise.

At the Carmenti farewell dinner, Bardholt needles Numun of Carmentum about elected rule and religion. Numun defends Carmenti governance, but when she dismisses bloodlines, Queen Sabran intervenes, linking Berethnet blood to chaining the Nameless One. Faced with court sentiment, Numun yields and the meal ends.

Days later, after quiet card play with her ladies and a memory of Wulf, Glorian attends worship at the Drouthwick Sanctuary, hearing the Saint’s charge that Berethnet queens maintain the chain. The ritual underscores the weight of her lineage.

That evening in the Dearn Chamber, with Lord Robart Eller departing, Sabran questions Glorian’s view of her suitors. Sabran then reveals Brenna Vatten has died, dissolving Einlek’s planned match and threatening Hróth–Mentendon stability. To appease Heryon Vattenvarg and preserve the Chainmail of Virtudom, Sabran declares Glorian must wed Magnaust Vatten.

Glorian protests, confessing she may not want a child or such a companion. Sabran reiterates their sacred duty to continue the line and avoid missteps amid Carmenti scrutiny. Overwhelmed, Glorian denies becoming like her mother, storms from the room, and, after a brief, tender encounter with Bardholt, flees in tears.