Chapter 29

Aris wakes in an opulent, starlit chamber tended by faeling sisters Este and Galice, realizing she and Raker have been healed from bog poison. Alarmed that her sword is missing, she learns faeling blacksmiths can move even claimed blades. Despite misgivings, she accepts their care, bathes, and dons a moonlit dress.

Escorted to the Elders, Aris and a bristling Raker are welcomed into the Traveling City, a sanctuary powered by starlight that repels demons. When Aris describes the silver-clad woman who saved them, the Elders identify her as the Astral Queen—older than gods—and, wary of divine opposition, permit Aris and Raker only one night of hospitality before they must leave at first light.

Unable to sleep, Aris explores the luminous markets and a gilded willow with Este. Their talk turns to loss and revenge; Este warns that vengeance corrupts and reacts fearfully when Aris admits her quest ends in death, then hastily departs.

Raker arrives, and their barbed banter becomes a challenge: he orders Aris to call her sword to hand. Centering herself, Aris receives a silent name—Stellaris—and successfully summons the blade, proving her bond.

They duel beneath the golden branches, both fully engaged for the first time. Stellaris hums against Raker’s sword as Aris matches his speed and intent, exhilarated by a worthy contest he’s never truly had. Raker eventually pins her, their nearness sparking intense, dangerous attraction; he notes her loose hair as a liability, then abruptly withdraws, ending the moment.