Chapter 6

Lupine, a sluagh knight, leads Suren, Oak, Tiernan, and the kelpie Jack through sea caves and underground groves to the Court of Moths’ great hall. Along the way, Suren quizzes Tiernan about Hyacinthe’s capture and loyalty to Madoc, learning of Hyacinthe’s past oath, fears of Cardan, and that the bridle followed an unspecified incident.

At the revel, Queen Annet, visibly pregnant, greets them with calculated courtesy. Oak requests safe passage to the Thistlewitch. Annet agrees to provide a shoe-marking sigil but chooses to hold Hyacinthe for now, warning them about their status as guests. She exposes Oak’s unspoken mission: rescuing Madoc, which the High Court won’t sanction.

Suren realizes Oak concealed his true aim and confronts him. Oak admits Jude likely opposes his plan but insists he must save the father who raised him, despite Madoc’s violent nature. Suren, wary of Oak’s love-talker charm yet moved by his loyalty, agrees to continue “for now.”

To appear unconcerned, Oak asks Suren to dance and teaches her steps. They share food and tense conversation about Suren’s past. Testing Oak’s sincerity, Suren initiates a kiss; Oak responds gently, leaving both unsettled.

As music swells and Oak is drawn back into the revel, Suren decides she must speak to Hyacinthe despite Annet’s conditions. She slips away through the crowd, intent on reaching him and hearing his full warning before their morning departure.