Chapter Sixty-Seven

Neema returns to the service hut where her recent troubles began and commits to flight, guided by Dragon Trial visions that show she will escape. She equips herself from her palace rooms and the armoury—using Sol’s staged distraction to reclaim weapons—then gathers food at the Ox farm amid turmoil over Fenn’s arrest, adding money and mementos to her pack.

She steals a porter’s key at the Raven palace and pauses to steady herself, wrestling with the disorienting aftershocks of Dragonfire visions. Moving through the grounds, she overhears revelers lauding Ruko and mocking her “pet raven,” sharpening her resolve. In the library, after Sol dramatically merges into her chest, she studies maps and a neglected road guide to plan a westward route toward the Bear monastery, refusing to steal the materials.

Outside, Havoc and Samran Hounds intercept Neema, citing an invitation from Emperor Bersun. As Havoc escorts her along the canal, Neema observes numerous Leviathans being loaded with supplies and treasures, far beyond normal strength. Havoc boasts of commanding the fleet and a promised High Admiralship, implying coordination with Ruko, but Neema senses a darker truth: the Tigers are executing a covert seizure of power and resources.

Havoc parades Neema through celebrating crowds to manufacture consent, though some factions remain wary. Back in her rooms, a note orders her to wear her opening-ceremony gown. Furious at the emperor’s control, Neema tears the dress to shreds. She dresses for travel, retying her Raven colors as a sash, and pointedly rebuffs Havoc: “He’s not my emperor,” affirming her Raven warrior identity and intent to resist.