Chapter 33

Rin lands with an unconscious Nezha and is confronted by Empress Daji, who exudes control despite the defeat of her fleet. Using hypnosis, Daji compels Rin toward self-harm and obedience, probing for how Rin broke the Seal and taunting her about Nezha’s frailty.

Rin stalls by accusing Daji of Ketreyid atrocities and Tseveri’s murder, provoking Daji’s anger. When Daji orders Rin to kneel, the Phoenix’s faint voice strengthens Rin’s defiance. Fueled by rage, Rin summons fire, overpowers Daji, and drives her back, ultimately gouging one of Daji’s eyes.

Before Rin can finish her, Daji forces visions into Rin’s mind: the Trifecta’s suffering under Mugenese occupation, their initiation by gods, the calculated killing of Tseveri to unite Warlords, and Daji’s rationale for ceding provinces. Daji then reveals her formative trauma—raped by a Hesperian, aided by a Mugenese—and insists the Hesperians are the true existential threat. She warns that Vaisra will discard Rin.

As Rin hesitates between vengeance and uncertainty, a ship’s mast collapses and crushes her, allowing Daji to escape. Daji departs urging Rin to decide whom she fights for and to find her when she understands.

Venka and Kitay arrive, free Rin from the wreckage, and assess severe injuries, including broken ribs and a lodged rod. When Kitay asks if Rin let Daji go, Rin admits she does not know, shaken by doubt over her choices and loyalties.