Chapter Twenty-Nine

In the aftermath of Beckett’s accident, Poppy realizes she is glowing as her touch eases his transformation and restores his shattered legs. Beckett can stand and move with minimal pain, astonishing the crowd. The gathered Atlantian, wolven, and mortals react with shock and fear, which Poppy acutely senses.

With Kieran and Vonetta, Poppy processes what happened. Vonetta explains empaths once could heal, though glowing was unheard of. Casteel suggests Poppy’s abilities may be evolving due to the Culling, their being on Atlantian soil, and the lingering strength of his blood. Concerned about people labeling Poppy a “Soul Eater,” Casteel asks her to use her gifts away from crowds until they understand more, wanting to control the narrative without hiding her.

Casteel stresses that Poppy didn’t just mend bones—she prevented Beckett from losing his legs by acting before permanent damage set in. Their charged exchange turns intimate before Casteel reins it in, reminding Poppy there are decisions to make.

Casteel then raises marriage logistics. He originally planned to wed at Saion’s Cove before reaching Evaemon, but now argues for a swift ceremony in Spessa’s End to preempt panic or violence. He explains they’ll need rings, a small ceremony, and an officiant: Jasper, head of the wolven bloodline, who arrives tomorrow.

Casteel outlines the political path: after marrying, they must continue to Atlantia so the King and Queen recognize the union and crown Poppy, securing her authority against Solis. Poppy perceives Casteel’s deeper worries about the Soul Eater stigma and his parents’ reactions. Despite that, she agrees to marry him in Spessa’s End.