Throne

Determined to prevent Grim from using Lightlark’s portal, Isla suppresses her grief and commits to attend every meeting as his wife to gain access. At dawn, she secretly portals Nightshade-made healing elixir to Lightlark’s infirmary, then joins Nightshade’s burial rites, enduring hostile glares and her own guilt.

That night in the throne room, Isla takes the shadow-forged throne Grim made for her, noting General Astria’s suspicion and widespread resentment. When the bold soldier Tynan challenges the retreat and insults Isla’s necklace, Grim subdues and humiliates him, reasserting Isla’s authority.

Grim then declares to the court that Isla’s bond to Oro gives Nightshade leverage to take Lightlark, presenting their withdrawal as strategy rather than defeat. Isla seethes as soldiers accept this narrative and file out, believing conquest is imminent.

Alone, Isla confronts Grim at blade point. Grim admits his speech was a stall to placate his court, not a true invasion plan, and reveals Nightshade faces devastating, cyclical storm seasons that bring disease and monsters, killing hundreds. He argues the portal could save both Isla and his people.

Shocked by the new threat but unwilling to risk Lightlark, Isla proposes they work together to find another solution and buy time—also to defy her fatal prophecy. Grim agrees. Isla departs with a warning that she will kill him if he endangers Lightlark, solidifying a tense, conditional alliance.