Chapter 21

Florence practices archery in the courtyard under Professor Stonefist’s terse coaching, channeling anxiety about the looming engagement ball into precise shooting. Stonefist’s displaced status highlights ongoing prejudice against blightborn students and faculty, even as Florence discovers archery suits her better than hand-to-hand combat.

As Florence’s focus falters, thoughts of the Avari-controlled spectacle intrude. She worries that the engagement, though presented as strategic, will claim both her freedom and Nyxaris’s obedience. She questions whether House Avari is safer than Viktor’s threat and dreads a loveless future with Kage.

Medra arrives, chiding Florence for missing their preparation time, then empathizes with her reluctance. Together they reaffirm the pragmatic goal: public betrothal as protection from Viktor. Florence privately contrasts her numbness toward Kage with increasingly vivid, erotic dreams of Nyxaris that reveal a visceral, conflicting desire.

Nyxaris reaches out telepathically, sensing Florence’s turmoil. He regrets the pageantry but affirms the necessity of using Kage’s name as a shield. Florence commits to facing the ball with dignity and asks Nyxaris to stay close, and he promises “Always,” grounding her resolve as she and Medra return to prepare.