After Dior is returned to her cell and finally falls asleep in rage and exhaustion, Celene leaves Dior in moth form and resumes her search through Dún Maergenn. In the frame narrative, Jean-François questions why Mother Maryn would be sleeping there, prompting Celene to explain the aftermath of the Wars of the Blood.

Celene says the Faithful survived the fall of Charbourg in only four members: Wulfric, Jènoah, Oleander, and Maryn. Burdened by the memories and souls they carried, the Four agreed that only two would remain awake at a time while the others slept in the eventide for a century at once. With Jènoah and Wulfric gone and Oleander distant, Celene believes God has brought her to Maergenn to find Maryn, the eldest of the Four.

Celene searches the sewers, old cellars, and necropolis of Maergenn. In the necropolis, Celene finds the sigil of the Esana carved into an old mason’s tomb, proving to her that Maryn is somewhere beneath the city. Dawn approaches before Celene can learn more, so Celene returns to the dún, needing rest, blood, and healing.

Inside the dún, Celene witnesses Kiara and two scorched guards escorting Aaron de Coste to Nikita Dyvok. Aaron has been turned and mutilated: the silver aegis of San Michon has been carved from his skin and replaced with ash-black scars. Aaron is starving but still praying, and he briefly comforts Isla when the girl emerges from Nikita’s chambers carrying bloody sheets.

Celene also sees Lilidh reading about the Esana and realizes that Lilidh’s age and knowledge make Lilidh the greatest threat to Dior. Aaron is then brought before Nikita, whose room is filled with blood-painted portraits and the lingering scent of slaughter. Kiara tries to ask Nikita for private attention or approval, but Nikita rebukes Kiara and reminds her that her place and gifts depend on his will.

Once alone with Aaron, Nikita tempts Aaron with blood and intimacy, but Aaron refuses to submit willingly. Nikita recounts a childhood lesson about how love makes people vulnerable, then reveals his leverage: Baptiste. Because Aaron loves Baptiste, Aaron cannot risk Nikita harming him. Nikita vows not to hurt Baptiste if Aaron gives himself over willingly, and Aaron, trapped by love and despair, kneels and calls Nikita master.