Asar and Mische leave the temple for the shadowy path toward the realm of Soul. The landscape is silent and strange, with gray sand, towering trunklike forms, and distant possible cries of wraiths. Asar keeps the golden arrow wrapped in his pack with the other relics, while Mische carries Asar’s sword.

Asar explains that Soul is next and that, because Soul and Secrets are closely linked, their journey may take one or two weeks on foot, or less. He warns that anything determined enough could follow them across the thin boundary. Mische understands that Ophelia, Malach, or Saescha might still be a threat, while Asar remains visibly shaken by what he saw in the temple.

When Mische asks about the final relic, Asar reveals that the Sanctum of Soul is more doorway than place, and that the passage itself will serve as the fifth relic. Mische then presses Asar about the golden arrow and whether it was truly intended for Nyaxia. Asar suggests the gods may have feared Nyaxia’s power, resented her independence, or wanted Alarus to use her as leverage, but he emphasizes that Alarus still kept the weapon despite loving her.

The discussion turns personal as Asar says people often hurt the ones they love, a truth that echoes both Asar’s guilt over Ophelia and Mische’s guilt over Saescha, Eomin, and others. Mische resists that bleak conclusion, insisting that love can endure, heal, and remain worthwhile. Thinking of Oraya and Raihn, Mische clings to the belief that good love can survive in a cruel world.

Later, Mische and Asar stop to rest beneath a misty sky that seems to contain visions of their whole journey. Lying beside him, Mische recalls their intimacy and senses how much has changed. Asar asks whether Mische has regrets, clearly fearing that Asar himself might be one of them.

Mische admits inwardly that she has many regrets, including the pain she has caused and the likely grief Raihn will feel if she dies. But Mische reassures Asar that she will never regret him. Asar falls asleep holding Mische’s hand, while Mische reflects that although she will never regret Asar, she believes Asar will someday regret Mische.