In the neglected former temple of Anibal on Anchor Street, Elsabet Belmany meets with Artal Gremont and a Charter holder she calls Seven. Elsabet sits before the altar in a priest’s chair, presenting herself as a distant princess with a commanding interest in Castellane’s politics.

Elsabet asks whether Prince Conor remains committed to the alliance with Kutani. Seven reports that Conor is unusually firm and has the support of advisers such as Bensimon and Jolivet, which frustrates Elsabet because the Kutani match threatens her plans.

Elsabet then turns to Kellian Saren, the Sword Catcher. Artal suggests simply hiring someone to kill Kel, but Seven points out that Kel is dangerous and that Elsabet wants him alive. Elsabet explains that her goal is not to kill Kel but to push him out of the Palace’s favor.

Seven says Conor protects Kel because the Prince loves him like a brother and has refused to hear criticism. Elsabet reasons that loyalty can be broken if Kel is made to appear treasonous: a friend might forgive betrayal, but a ruler cannot ignore an act against the state. Seven mentions Kel’s connection to the Ragpicker King, though Elsabet says that alone is not enough because Castellane has long contained hidden ties between its two “kings.”

Elsabet decides that Kel’s position as a Sword Catcher can be exploited by encouraging resentment over being born to die for someone else. She orders Seven and Artal to watch Kel until he makes a mistake. Finally, Elsabet reminds Artal of his own task: they believe Antonetta knows where Prosper Beck can be found, and Artal is to force or persuade his fiancée to reveal it.