Chapter 10

Riding a storm he inadvertently summoned, Samkiel scouts docks where witches load heavy iron crates onto a massive ship. Suspecting a larger operation, he follows and lands aboard at sea, confirming the vessel is witch-controlled and headed into open waters rather than toward Novas.

After ambushing crewmen and descending to the cargo hold, Samkiel finds crates of iron and corners Santiago, whom he maims and restrains with divine power. Agitated by Santiago’s taunts about Dianna and Kaden, he summons Oblivion, explaining it is a true-death blade that erases existence.

Under threat, Santiago admits Kaden is stockpiling iron and confides that Kaden now trusts only Tobias. He further suggests Azrael may not be dead and references the Kings of Yejedin, including Alistair, casting doubt on events Samkiel witnessed on Rashearim and implying powerful deceptions.

Thunder not of Samkiel’s making signals Dianna’s approach, terrifying Santiago. Seeking advantage and answers, Samkiel forces Santiago along the corridors, then locks him inside a sealed room, declaring Santiago is alive only for information and as bait.

Alone, Samkiel reflects on his possessive yet protective resolve toward Dianna, rejecting Kaden’s brutality while acknowledging Dianna’s growing self-destructive cycle of killings. He welds the door shut with fire and races upward to confront the imminent threat as the ship falls eerily silent.