Chapter 22

Disguised and anxious, Orso waits at a derelict taverna on the Candiano campo, summoning Estelle with their old twinned hand-harps. Estelle arrives, and their shared memories of the balcony where Orso once proposed resurface, mingling sentiment with the urgency of Orso’s request.

Orso explains the plan: they need Tribuno’s blood to pass the Mountain’s defenses and steal Tomas Ziani’s device, crippling his deadly work. Estelle listens, then indirectly reveals recent injuries, which Orso realizes likely came from Tomas.

Confronted with the past, they revisit why Orso left after Estelle refused his proposal—she sought to lead her house under rigid inheritance laws, while Tribuno’s “traditional” power threatened to force their union. The rift clarifies their history and Estelle’s resolve.

Estelle agrees to help. She will provide Tribuno’s blood and discloses a secret entrance built for Tribuno’s private movements, unknown to Tomas. The passage will recognize the bearer of the blood, but the blood must be kept cool and used within three nights.

Estelle warns the Mountain will likely detect the imposture, making exit impossible by the same route. Orso contemplates extracting Sancia by anchoring and flying her out—dangerous but feasible. Estelle accepts the personal risk, uncertain whether she’ll gain freedom or face suspicion and execution, and urges caution as they part.