Gideon Sharpe arrives at Thornwood in the rain, nearly turning back before Rune Winters’ encouragement echoes in his mind and gives him the nerve to enter. Inside, the house’s familiar scent of roses and bloodlike magic triggers memories, but thinking of Rune helps him push through.

In the parlor, Gideon joins Alex Sharpe and several young men—Bart Wentholt and Noah Creed among them—for cards. Watching Alex socialize easily and remembering how Alex supported him after the revolution, Gideon feels both admiration and guilt, especially as he privately wonders what it would mean to court Rune for real if Alex were not in love with her.

Conversation turns to the Luminaries Dinner and the reported witch attack. Gideon confirms the danger and finally recounts the incident, while Noah needles him about Rune’s reputation. When Noah calls Rune “loose,” Alex slams the table and warns Noah to stop, making it clear Alex will not tolerate anyone disrespecting her.

Trying to leave, Gideon plans to pass a warning through the staff, but Alex pressures him into one more round and insists Gideon bet his prison access coin. Gideon agrees out of shame and obligation—and promptly loses. Alex pockets the coin as he escorts Gideon out.

In the hall, Gideon privately tells Alex that Cressida Roseblood was responsible for the spell at the dinner and may be alive. Alex is shaken, asks whether Rune knows, and decides he will ride to Wintersea to warn her. Before Gideon leaves, Alex confirms he departs for Caelis in four days; realizing time is short and believing Rune isn’t a witch, Gideon resolves that the next time he sees Rune, he will end things so Alex can speak his feelings.