Leaving the library with the revelation of the Esani, the Faithless, on his mind, Gabriel returns toward the Barracks at San Michon. He notices Aaron de Coste moving furtively into the Armoury and, driven by suspicion and curiosity, follows by climbing in through the roof.

Inside the forge, expecting trouble, Gabriel instead witnesses Aaron and the young smith Baptiste Sa-Ismael in an intense embrace. Shocked, he tries to withdraw quietly but stumbles, drawing their attention. Aaron pins Gabriel to the wall in panic and fury, threatening him to keep silent, while Baptiste calms Aaron, refusing any violence to cover up their secret.

After Aaron releases him, the three confront the implications. Gabriel invokes the Order’s vows and the Testaments, while Baptiste counters that judgment belongs to God and that their love violates no oath to women. Both Aaron and Baptiste explain why they remain within the Silver Order despite the mortal risk of discovery: they are sworn to fight the rising dark, and they choose to do so together.

Gabriel recalls Aaron’s past loss at the hands of Baron de Coste and recognizes the danger and bravery in their choice. Reflecting on his own sins that night—breaking rules to seek truths about the Esani—he questions whether good can come from sin and who decides such matters amid daysdeath.

Choosing loyalty over judgment, Gabriel vows on his life to keep their secret from Abbot Khalid, Forgemaster Argyle, and Master Greyhand. Baptiste embraces him in gratitude, and Aaron thanks him, their hostility easing into a fragile solidarity. Gabriel departs, pondering faith, sin, and the bonds of brotherhood.