Chapter Sixty-Seven

Royo narrates rising chaos in the Khitan palace as nobles crowd at a distance to witness Euyn attempt to turn the black egg to gold using Queen Quilimar’s ring. The queen had threatened arrest, but now offers a wager that could cost Euyn his head if he fails, intensifying Royo’s fear and confusion.

Guards reposition while Sora and Aeri fidget; Mikail remains unreadable. Aeri feels something emanating from the ring, though Royo only notices the war drums warning citizens to the walls. The court watches as Queen Quilimar removes the ring and places it in Euyn’s hand.

Euyn hesitates and asks if words are needed. The queen says the king simply touched things to turn them to gold. Mikail clarifies the ring’s etherum obeys the wearer’s intention and urges Euyn to stop, but Quilimar insists the wager stands. Aeri focuses on the ring; Royo fears she might try to steal it.

Royo spots a glint at the queen’s sleeve—an up‑sleeve saber—and tries to warn Euyn. Quilimar silences him, and guards tighten their threat. She demands a quick attempt, declaring they are at war and may need Euyn’s head, underscoring her hostility and the stakes.

Under the beating drums, Euyn steels himself, whispers “Turn to gold,” and extends the ring to the egg. The chapter ends as the ring touches the egg, leaving the outcome unknown.