20 Meryn

Exhausted, Meryn falls into the shadow realm she shares with Killian, finding him enthroned in living darkness. Killian denies poisoning Izabel, claims Phylax chose him, and says nobles fear Meryn’s power. He tries seduction and leverage, threatening Saela, until Meryn rejects him and forces herself awake, her engagement bracelet burning her wrist.

Shaken, Meryn discovers Stark has been keeping vigil in her room. She admits the shadow-dreams are real, linked to Killian through the bracelet, and mentions an earlier unknown male voice. Stark’s anger hardens into resolve; he declares his support is chosen, not compelled by mate bonds or duty, because he believes in the future Meryn represents. At her request, he stays, wakes her when shadows descend, and holds her so she finally sleeps dreamlessly.

After two restored nights, they prepare to ride for Weisenstat. Venna insists on joining for purpose; Nevah remains at Sturmfrost to liaise and watch Tomison. Meryn brings the shards of the Dire Blade, hoping for reforging guidance.

On the road with Stark, Noemi, Venna, and Saela, they near Linsfall. Saela’s blood-hunger rises, so Meryn detours into the woods for privacy and a hunt. As Meryn reassures Saela about finding a cure, Saela voices fear of remaining a Siphon forever and of being cast aside. Before Meryn can answer, a uniformed man ambushes them, pressing a knife to Saela’s throat and calling Meryn “usurper.”