Chapter Twenty-Five

While awaiting Lara’s decision, Harry is visited by Ebenezar McCoy, escorted in by the Knights of the Bean. Bear, contracted by Lara, warns about city dangers and discreetly shadows them as Harry and Ebenezar leave the castle for a private walk through snowy streets.

Ebenezar breaks the silence to address history Harry doesn’t know: Margaret’s relationship with Lord Raith. He fears she was effectively addicted and no longer fully in control. Harry acknowledges the world’s pain while pressing Ebenezar about the past, including the duel where Ebenezar unleashed war-level defenses that would have killed Harry had Harry not been prepared.

Ebenezar admits the Council’s actions left Harry vulnerable to powers like Mab and Lara, and confesses his hatred of the White Court stems from losing his only child. He explains that Lord Raith survived due to Council politics and Ebenezar’s desire for Raith to suffer. Harry suggests confronting Raith directly. Ebenezar apologizes for losing control when he learned Thomas was Raith’s son.

Harry sets a hard boundary: Thomas is his brother, and any attack on Thomas will mean Harry opposes Ebenezar. Ebenezar accepts this and admits he overstepped at Etri’s, driven by worry for Maggie. The two find common ground in shared grief for Karrin Murphy; Ebenezar reassures Harry that healing will come, and they embrace, rebuilding trust.

Resolved, Harry states he will make decisions for Maggie. He asks Ebenezar to be present on Christmas morning, and then decides to retrieve Maggie from the Carpenters immediately and move her in. Ebenezar believes it may be a mistake but pledges to back Harry’s play.