Theme: Agents on the hunt, brotherly bonds, priestess games.
• Ayola's agents go undercover
The chapter opens in a distant, vibrant trading hub. Ayola's spies (led by an agent named Roudy) infiltrate a caravan known to be spreading false sigils. Hidden in scrolls and charm tokens are corrupted imprints. The agents begin uncovering evidence of an organized network — not tribal but guided by a deeper force.
"They brand the weak first," Roudy whispers. "The ones with nothing to protect."
• Point of view: Yanni, Zion's brother – The Guardian
Back in Nouvo Lakay, Yanni trains new warriors with a quiet sternness. He watches the priestesses flirt with Zion and chuckles.
"You've got five storms circling you, brother. Hope you've learned to sail."
Yanni reflects on their early days—how Zion always believed in something bigger, even when others laughed.
• Priestess Banter
During a temple gathering, the five priestesses each sit closer to Zion than the last. Thalia dares him to spar; Sael brings wine; Ayomi speaks in riddles about "paths crossing"; Elis blushes but watches him long; and Ayola, ever serious, sits in the shadows but never misses a word.
Zion: "One day I'll know peace."
Sael (grinning): "Not while we're still breathing."