Chapter 22: Blood and Water

In council aboard the Mistral, Marlowe discloses his bargain with the Exalted merchant Brevon: a vial of Tanaran’s blood in exchange for passage to Vorgossos aboard the Enigma of Hours in roughly a fortnight. Valka unexpectedly laughs off his concern, while Captain Corvo calls it a success. Marlowe, uneasy about what the blood might enable, urges against shore leave on March Station.

After the meeting, Valka confronts Marlowe about his distraction. He explains his revulsion at Brevon’s homunculus and the implications of selling blood, rejecting comparisons to his family’s slavery. Valka argues the act is minor compared to their goal; Marlowe fears creating suffering through his choices but concedes the necessity.

Marlowe and Valka visit Tanaran in the red-lit brig. Marlowe explains the need for a blood sample as payment for travel; Valka frames it as study of heredity. Tanaran worries it would enable weapons and equates giving blood with becoming another’s property, refusing on grounds of honor.

Pressed, Tanaran asks for secrecy if they reach its people, revealing it is baetan—keeper of traditions and the sacred past. This status makes defilement collective. Valka minimizes the act as medical, but Tanaran warns that once a door opens, many things may enter.

At last, Tanaran yields, baring its throat. Marlowe draws the black blood, promises it will bring Tanaran home, and Valka tends the small wound. Tanaran affirms belief in Marlowe, while the crew now possesses the payment that will secure their passage to Vorgossos.