35 Stark

As Meryn settles Lucien’s crown on her head, she collapses. Stark catches her and braces for the worst until he notices her breathing and recalls a similar episode with the Sturmfrost crown. The Astreonans tense; Noemi and Venna draw weapons. When Meryn wakes, she removes the crown and demands answers about the bracelet seen in Lucien’s vision.

Lucien explains traditional Siphon thralls: reciprocal blood exchange, partial compulsion, distance limits, and consent. He then reveals Alistair’s innovation—thrall bracelets—jewels forged from mixed blood that grant absolute, indefinite control without consent and can be removed only by the creator; forced removal kills the wearer. Meryn realizes Alistair and Killian had ample access to her blood.

Lucien exposes Meryn’s bracelet to the court, triggering revulsion and a sudden confrontation. He presses a dagger to Meryn’s throat, arguing she could be under Alistair’s control. Meryn counters with a hidden blade and clarifies: the bracelet lets Killian siphon her power and access pack bonds, but it does not dominate her mind. Lucien relents, unsettled by this atypical effect.

Discussion turns to Siphon aging and dependence on human blood for youthful appearance, further demystifying Astreona. Lucien resumes his provocation, but Meryn demands substance. He proposes a permanent ceasefire and alliance against Alistair, claiming delegation is his strength.

Finally, Lucien states his concrete offer: if Meryn agrees to work together, he will place all Astreonan forces under her command, ceding military control to pursue Alistair and Killian.