As the group trudges through heavy rain beyond a plague fence and into a forbidden barony, Brother Diaz complains about their miserable luck and the danger of the washed-out, muddy road. The miserable conditions underline how exposed and exhausted the party has become while they keep moving east.

Vigga, who has been losing patience with Diaz, reflects on how his manner has worsened since they rejoined Alex and Sunny. The nearly full moon is making it harder for Vigga to control her werewolf nature, and the strain leaves her restless, aggressive, and tempted by violence. Even though she tries to keep herself in check, she becomes convinced their enemies may still be tracking them, especially if the pursuers have a werewolf of their own.

When Sunny suggests the rain may hide the party's scent, the conversation turns to whether they are still being followed. Vigga argues that instead of continuing to run, they should turn back, choose the ground, and strike first. Brother Diaz refuses because he believes his duty is to get Princess Alexia safely to Troy, and he insists that, as the leader appointed by Her Holiness, he will not risk the remaining members of the Chapel in a fight.

The disagreement escalates into a personal confrontation. Vigga mocks Diaz's caution and his beliefs, while Diaz rejects her talk of glorious battle and Valhalla. Their hostility is mixed with unresolved sexual tension, making the argument feel unstable and dangerous, especially with Vigga's wolf instincts rising.

Alex steps in before the quarrel can get worse, ordering Diaz to stop provoking Vigga and reminding Vigga that the party is outnumbered, Sunny is still injured, and Troy remains the goal. When Alex demands to know what happened between Vigga and Diaz, the awkward moment is interrupted by Sunny, who spots a distant man-made structure through the rain. The group identifies what looks like a bell tower and heads toward the ruin, hoping it may offer shelter.