Chapter Thirty-Four

In early February, Harry intensifies work on a spell to sever Thomas from his Hunger. He recognizes the operation’s catastrophic potential—akin to breaking molecular bonds—and decides it must be executed on Demonreach inside a containment “vault,” after a thaw when he can transport materials. Bob the Skull helps design a major circle.

With Fitz off at the gym, Harry prepares a familiar summoning ritual, centering on his pistol, keys, and rough diamonds, and calls Murphy’s shade. They discuss cooperative games before Harry admits Mab is nudging him toward revenge on Rudolph. The Winter mantle stirs his anger, but the shade challenges whether vengeance is truly Harry’s desire or the mantle’s.

Pressed, Harry confesses he wanted to kill Rudolph and even fought the Knights who stopped him, bearing a burn from the Sword of Faith. He spirals through guilt over Murphy’s death, blaming his choices and the chaos of that war night. The shade counters his self-blame as arrogant, reminds him Murphy chose the fight, and affirms Murphy’s love and lack of regret. She urges Harry to speak with living friends, preserve good memories, face the worst, and begin letting go.

When the candles gutter and the shade vanishes, Harry breaks down. Bear knocks, steadies him, and bluntly tells him to stop punishing himself, get up, and act because greater events are moving. She reframes his torment as proof of his conscience and insists he treat himself with the same protection he’d extend to others. Exhausted but receptive, Harry accepts the counsel and goes to sleep, committed to healing and preparing for what’s coming.