Nineteen: Messages

Verity departs Buckkeep in winter with a small, nonmartial party—Hod, Charim, Chestnut, twins Keef and Kef, and Burrich—ostensibly to treat with Eyod but truly to seek the Elderlings. The night before, Verity asks Fitz to guard Kettricken and to host Verity’s presence in Fitz’s mind for private reports. Fitz consents, though wary of losing himself.

With Verity gone, Fitz briefly enjoys freedom, hunting with Nighteyes and avoiding Regal’s swelling court. Rumors spread that Verity seeks myth, likely stoked by Regal. Chade grows secretive, and Fitz senses concealed work. After twenty-three days, news arrives: Ferry has been burned and many Forged. Despite lit beacons and birds sent, no help came. Regal offers sympathy but withholds ships and relief, citing empty coffers.

Guided by Verity’s intent, Fitz secures an heirloom emerald necklace in Verity’s rifled study to fund aid. Kettricken, also suspecting sabotage of messages, resolves to consult King Shrewd first to avoid a public family rift before Coastal dukes arrive. She confirms she relies on Fitz as Verity’s chosen advisor in his absence.

In the stables, Fitz and acting Stablemaster Hands block a Tilth man, Lance, from seizing Buckkeep horses on a writ signed only by Regal. Fitz insists only the King or Queen-in-Waiting can sell royal stock, forcing Lance to withdraw, revealing Regal’s quiet liquidation of assets.

Kettricken reports that Regal dominated Shrewd’s audience, claiming Near Islands were ceded and that Verity recalled the patrol ship Constance—lies that would justify abandoning coasts. Shrewd seems childlike and passive. Fitz, feeling Verity’s shared confusion, concludes communications are being subverted across towers, birds, and coterie. He vows to expose the net of lies and ensure aid for Bearns.