Chapter 59

In the temple library, Maevyth joins Zevander, Father, and Corwin over a Mortasian map to plan a five-to-seven-day trek to the Sawtooth Mountains for a rare white stone Mr. Moros once found. Father admits Lyverians guard the stones and questions their intent. When Father suggests a river route and diplomacy, Zevander presses for a bypass to avoid Lyverians.

Father warns that the alternate path is haunted, recounting a vanished breakaway parish led by Sacton Gansley, after which no traveler returned. Zevander dismisses the tale and prioritizes speed. Tension rises as Father doubts Zevander and insists on accompanying his daughters, while Zevander argues a large party will slow them.

Raivox suddenly peers through the window, terrifying Corwin and startling Father, but Maevyth calms them and frames the Corvugon as curious rather than hostile. The group returns to planning: Zevander favors the haunted shortcut unless there’s a tangible threat beyond stories, while Father clings to doctrine and caution.

Logistics spark fresh conflict. Zevander suggests Father and Aleysia remain behind; Aleysia refuses and declares she will go if Maevyth does. Corwin reveals a hidden stable built after the Scallym plague, likely still holding a dozen horses. Zevander, suspicious but pragmatic, demands to see it immediately.

Fearing Zevander might leave, Maevyth tries to join, but Zevander redirects her to gather supplies and pointedly promises not to abandon her. He kisses Maevyth before departing with Corwin. Afterward, Aleysia needles about relationships, Father pries into past accusations, and the sisters deflect. As they pack, Father questions Zevander’s secrets; Maevyth affirms her trust despite Aleysia’s blame for earlier dangers.