Odessa and Evangeline wait tensely for word from the hunting parties that pursued the Lyssa-infected bariwolf pack which killed thirty-one people in Ellder. Samuel Hay visits with a refined version of Odessa’s Turah map, offering additions and corrections but erasing a speculative line into Allesaria, warning against marking it. After he leaves, Odessa integrates his details into her secret journal, marking Ellder with an X for the many infected bariwolves and trying to discern an epicenter for Lyssa. She finds no clear pattern and fixates again on Allesaria and the Voster as the likely source, though she notes the lack of evidence on the map and her need for Ransom’s cuff to confirm the location.

Restless, Odessa burns Samuel’s map to protect him and walks the quiet, grief-stricken streets. The gates open for Halston’s party from Treow, escorting a wagon with two unconscious, unidentified men who fell ill upon arriving in Treow; healers found no bite marks. Odessa greets Tillia, who reveals she is newly pregnant and that Halston wants her in Ellder until the birth. Tillia confirms Halston’s rangers have been with Zavier and the Guardian and that the hunters split to scout.

Moments later, Zavier and his rangers enter Ellder; Zavier is injured with a dislocated shoulder and a limp after being thrown when his horse spooked at a lionwick. Ransom follows at the rear, filthy and armed, and locks eyes with Odessa. Tillia quietly acknowledges knowing the secret of Zavier’s and Ransom’s exchanged public roles and notes that in the wilds only their closest circle knows the truth. Tillia also explains that the two unconscious men likely suffered exposure and dehydration and that they hope the men survive to answer questions.

Ransom approaches Odessa, trading barbed greetings that mask relief. Suddenly Odessa feels the Voster’s magic as the High Priest arrives with Brother Dime. The High Priest floats forward, and, without explanation, grabs Odessa’s hand. Agonizing pain lances through her arm until Ransom interposes with his sword at the High Priest’s throat, forcing him to release her. The High Priest, seemingly unmoved by the threat, asks Brother Dime if he knew and then pointedly demands to know the identity of Odessa’s mother.

Before Odessa can answer, Luella sprints into the courtyard, pale and frantic. Zavier limps toward her, but Luella seizes Ransom’s arm and gasps that Evangeline is gone. The chapter ends with Evangeline’s disappearance overshadowing the hunters’ return and the High Priest’s disturbing reaction to Odessa.