Darrow emerges from the leviathan with Sevro and Cassius, praying Lyria lives but relying on force. Dripping acid, the trio advances on the high table as Reds howl and servants scatter. Sevro shoots Fá with an explosive dart and threatens detonation, freezing the gathering and buying Darrow space to act.

Darrow publicly declares ashvar—sacred Obsidian vendetta—naming his grievances: Fá’s war on Mars, enslavement of Reds, profanation of Ragnar’s name, Sefi’s death, and theft of his army. The Ascomanni exalt the spectacle as a sign from their Allfather, but the jarls hesitate. Volga pulls Lyria aside, distancing herself from Fá.

Fá tries to deny Darrow’s right, calling him no Obsidian. Darrow appeals to jarls who witnessed his adoption into the Volk. They falter until Skarde rises. Citing the law of the ice, Skarde affirms Darrow’s standing and warns that refusal would cost Fá his throne. He frames the duel as a divine omen, inflaming Ascomanni fervor.

Emboldened, Fjod and conservative jarls pound for Fá to fight, then Glumnar, Uther, and others join. The Ascomanni cheer, boxing Fá in with his own religion and martial code. Fá capitulates; Sevro deactivates the dart. When Darrow asks the terms, Fá chooses “Honorable” weapons, the “Dome” as field, and “Full-metal” panoply, setting an ultimate duel.