Chapter 51

Raeve studies the smog-choked expanse of Gondragh, weighing the urgent risk to a clutch of eggs—especially if the Great Silver Sabersythe keeps abandoning her nest—and the wider threat of catastrophic moonfall. She steels herself with water, noting a wall of names honoring those lost to the terrain, including Heathron.

Outside, a bronze dam skims magma to bathe her eggs, confirming the nests’ precarious cycle. Kilíth enters with his golden hatchling draped across his shoulder, its steady bond a hopeful counterpoint to the chaos. He notices Raeve’s preparations—cooling runed leathers, spiked boots, and pickaxes—recognizing her intent to venture out despite worsening conditions.

As eruptions intensify and visibility threatens to collapse, Raeve commits to leaving. She gives Kilíth Kaan’s note and a parchment lark, instructing him to trigger the final fold if she does not return within seven cycles, ensuring the message will find its destination. Kilíth swears to it.

Before departing, Raeve offers the name “Grihm,” a stark contingency for the wall of the lost should she fail. She wraps her face, shoulders her pack, draws a silver dragonscale blade, and strides into the exit tunnel toward Gondragh’s lethal haze and the nests.