48. Harlow

Returning to her rooms after dinner, Harlow hears someone in the safe room and arms herself. Instead of an intruder, she finds her maid, Cora, who casually explains the safe room wards keep out the Returned—bloodthirsty Deathless like Henry and others, who feed under supervision in the recovery room.

Reeling from the revelation, Harlow masks her panic and plans to escape via the mountain caves rather than attempt the guarded gates or the Drained Wood. She quietly changes footwear, hides a blade, and slips through the manor toward the gallery exit closest to the caves.

As Harlow hides in the dim gallery, Henry arrives, drawn by her scent on the blood-locked door. He ushers her back inside, lights more candles, and probes her unease while the shifting paintings mirror her fear. Harlow struggles to appear calm, realizing Henry likely senses her panic.

When a painting shifts into vicious teeth, Harlow and Henry silently acknowledge she knows the truth. Henry lunges to seize her. Drawing on training with Gaven, Harlow dodges and drives her boot blade between Henry’s ribs—twice—choosing flight over further fight.

Henry collapses as Harlow bolts from the gallery, committing fully to escape before the Returned can stop her.