Chapter Two

Poppy freezes as the stranger embraces her, then recognizes him as Hawke Flynn, the renowned guard. Hawke calls her “sweetling,” mistaking her for Britta because of the borrowed cloak. Poppy stays silent, conflicted between danger and curiosity, as Hawke undresses and advances.

Hawke lifts Poppy, lays her on the bed, and kisses her hard, becoming her first kiss. He abruptly realizes she isn’t Britta, pulling back her hood and noting her hair. When Poppy awkwardly claims prior experience, he teases out the lie and refuses to move, calling her “Princess” and pressing for her name and reasons.

Their banter shifts to conversation. Poppy asks why Hawke joined the Rise; he cites limited opportunities and questions whether risking one’s life is truly a choice. Poppy argues guards show courage but admits not all are good. They discuss family: Hawke’s father lives; Poppy’s parents are dead. Hawke speaks knowingly about grief’s persistence.

Hawke suggests Poppy came with a purpose beyond talk. Poppy silently acknowledges she sought to live, to choose, to experience. She considers continuing—inviting more firsts—while recognizing that, as the Maiden, discovery could deem her unworthy, with punishment as severe as death or exile. The scene ends with desire and peril in tense balance.