At first light, Aldren is called to Rosemere's outer court. Lord Marric waits with Brisa and Tolan: the Lantern of Saint Rowan has been stolen, and the old border-oaths are weakening.

The thief is Varkesh, a ferret warlord gathering scattered bands beneath one cruel banner. Old records speak of a hidden blade paired with the Lantern. Aldren must leave Rosemere before fear rewrites Thornwood.