Chapter Seven

Harry meets Molly at the marina and finds his sunken boat, the Water Beetle, fully restored by Winter resources. The makeover triggers Harry’s guilt over the city’s devastation and his role in it, but Molly counters that he did the best possible amid catastrophe and should direct anger toward Ethniu and the Fomor.

They debate Harry’s self-punishment and protector mentality. Molly warns him that treating female threats with leniency is tactically dangerous, citing Lara’s past attempt on his life. Harry’s grief over Karrin and his burn from Fidelacchius underscore his volatility and restraint.

Molly admits Mab has ordered her to facilitate matters—even suggesting Harry let Lara seduce him—while revealing she cannot be Harry’s private ally under Mab’s scrutiny. Harry recognizes Molly’s constraints and chooses to trust that she will help when she can.

Lara arrives elegantly armed only with charm and a picnic, and the two exchange cautious pleasantries. Aboard the refurbished Water Beetle, Harry notices Lara’s touch no longer burns him; she explains she has fed and is keeping her Hunger checked, so holy backlash is dormant. Harry pilots them onto Lake Michigan toward Demonreach, both maintaining a careful, unresolved equilibrium.