Lieutenant Colonel Nolon Colbersy informs General Lilith Sorrengail they have unsuccessfully attempted all known methods to find a cure and can only control the situation.
Xaden feels utterly overpowered and trapped above the battlefield, with his own magical abilities turned against him by The Sage.
The Sage taunts Xaden for nearing magical burnout and explains that magic seeks balance, punishing its overuse with self-consumption.
Xaden struggles against the magical bonds The Sage has imposed on him, reflecting on those he feels he's failed, especially the women in his life.
The Sage offers Xaden one final chance to make the "right choice," indicating a possible turn or betrayal.
As Xaden tries to gather his strength, he senses Violet is in danger and might sacrifice herself to save him, leading to feelings of fear and deja vu from a past event.
Despite his helplessness, Xaden discovers a new source of immense power beneath him, which Sgaeyl reacts to with alarm.
Following this intense experience, Xaden wakes up next to Violet, relieved but also resolved that he's about to cause her great pain.
Xaden silently leaves the bed, preparing himself for a difficult path ahead and navigates his way to the holding cells of Basgiath.
Sgaeyl, the power source, remains silent which is unusual post-battle, as Xaden uses shadows to stealthily avoid notice.
Arriving at Jack Barlowe's cell, Xaden confronts him about a cure for what ails them both, hinting at a shared unwanted power or affliction.
Jack Barlowe explains that what they possess is not a disease but a form of power that cannot be cured, and suggests that Xaden has become hungry for more of it.
Xaden resists this idea, but Jack implies that Xaden has inadvertently embraced this dark power, making them akin to brothers in misfortune.