After escaping the wraiths and souleaters, Mische drifts in and out of consciousness while Asar helps her through the false jungle. Asar is also badly injured, and the smell of his blood worsens Mische’s hunger. Luce leads them to a ruined version of Morthryn, where Asar casts protective spells and says they are safe for the moment.

Mische realizes there are no real animals in the Descent and that Asar is the only available source of blood. Mische resists because she has never fed from live prey and fears that wanting Asar’s blood will make Atroxus hate her. Asar rejects Mische’s shame, insisting that she is more than the self-hatred the sun god taught her and that he will not let her die because of it.

As Mische weakens, Asar draws her close and offers his throat. Mische bargains for a limited amount, then drinks from Asar. The feeding gives Mische strength but also releases intense desire and deepens the dangerous intimacy between them. Mische stops at ten drinks, then offers Asar her own blood because Asar is also starving and will need strength for what lies ahead.

Asar hesitates to make sure Mische truly wants this, then feeds from Mische while carefully limiting himself to five drinks. The exchange becomes physically and emotionally overwhelming, and Asar helps Mische experience pleasure without fully crossing the line she fears would betray her vows. Afterward, both are exhausted and shaken by how much they wanted each other.

Asar tells Mische she needs to heal and refuses to let her continue walking yet. Mische worries about Luce and about having taken too much, but Asar reassures her and urges her to rest. Mische asks Asar to stay beside her, and he agrees, echoing Esme’s earlier warning that once Asar cares, he does not stop.