40. Axel

Axel returns to Katya before a summons from Valter. Both know the illusion of safety is ending. Their tension peaks as Axel warns Katya to expect torture and coercion, revealing his fear and guilt for endangering her. They are collected by Metias and Pavil, while Theon, drained, cautions them.

At Valter’s manor, the Arius Lord blames Theon for failing to secure a new Source and turns Katya into a political demonstration to reassure suspicious nobles. Valter taunts Katya’s obedience, dismisses Axel’s protests, and violently subdues Axel, stabbing him and ordering Pavil and Metias to take Katya through a portal.

Left under guard, Axel refuses to let them touch Katya, knowing their Gracil gifts would amplify her fears. He leads the group to the portal station, covertly instructing Katya to call Tristyn Blackheart. Outside the terminal, Metias tries to alert Valter; Axel severs his hand, kills him, and then brutally executes Pavil for laying hands on Katya.

With time short and evidence burning incomplete, Axel contacts Tristyn, who offers sanctuary at Lilura Inquest. Axel drives Katya there, insisting her safety matters more than his fate. At the north entrance, Tristyn swears to hide her and tell no one, even Axel. Axel and Katya share a final, painful parting before she vanishes into concealment.