10. Ten

Poppy arrives in the morning with a white sundress and escorts Amara to meet Ezra, who invites her on a tour of the royal gardens. Amara, an herbalist, is thrilled at the prospect, recalling her aunt and love for plants.

Inside the humid glass dome, Ezra points out rare and Orilon-native species. A blue glow from a plant entrances Amara; a large blue flower opens to reveal teeth as vines ensnare and lift her. Ezra’s shadows surge, drain the plant’s life, and the vines drop Amara. He carries her, worried and apologetic.

Ezra explains the lack of gardeners, the plant’s hypnotic lure for humans, and asks if she is hurt. When Amara asks about the shadows, he reveals his shadow magic and its power to manipulate darkness and drain life, offering to return her to her room. Amara, shaken but resolute, chooses to continue if he keeps her close, and Ezra agrees.

He leads her to a safer orchid greenhouse, assuring there are no other carnivorous plants. Amid the blooms, Ezra deflects a murmured comment and instead asks her dinner preferences, noting he has always chosen. He promises a surprise meal, maintaining a warm demeanor.

Amara remains wary, recalling his harsh words the previous night, yet notes his fear for her and gentle care now. She resolves to be cautious, uncertain whether his tenderness is genuine or part of convincing the priestess of their supposed love.