The chapter opens with Falkan, injured and bleeding, collapsing in the forest. Nesryn rushes to his aid despite Sartaq’s initial阻拦, revealing that Falkan had followed them in the form of a falcon. Tensions rise as Sartaq accuses Falkan of being a spy or assassin due to his shape-shifting abilities, but Falkan insists he is merely a merchant who inherited the gift unwillingly. He explains that his powers emerged late and that he has no allegiance to any court. Nesryn defends him, demanding medical attention, while Sartaq remains distrustful.

As Nesryn tends to Falkan’s wound, he shares his backstory, explaining how he discovered his shape-shifting abilities and his desire to reclaim the years stolen from him by a mysterious force. Despite his pain, Falkan maintains his innocence, and Nesryn believes him, revealing that she has a shifter among her friends. Sartaq reluctantly assists with bandages, though his hostility lingers. The group prepares to return to the aerie, with Falkan’s condition requiring urgent care. The dynamic between the characters highlights themes of trust and prejudice.

The flight back to the aerie is tense and perilous, with Falkan’s unconscious body adding to the challenge. Sartaq’s anger simmers, but they arrive safely as night falls. Upon landing, they are met by Houlun, Borte, and others, who quickly take Falkan to a healer. Sartaq confronts Houlun about Falkan’s presence, suggesting she knew more than she let on. Meanwhile, Borte observes the black blood on Kadara, hinting at the violent encounter with the spider creature. The scene underscores the unresolved tensions and mysteries surrounding Falkan’s role.

The chapter closes with Nesryn and Borte exchanging brief remarks about the day’s events. Borte notes the unusual dynamic between Sartaq and Houlun, implying guilt or secrecy. Nesryn remains focused on unpacking, her thoughts unspoken but her actions reflecting her determination. The aftermath of the confrontation leaves questions unanswered, setting the stage for further revelations about Falkan’s past and the broader conflicts at play. The chapter blends action, dialogue, and character development to advance the plot.

The chapter opens with a tense scene where Falkan, wounded and bleeding, drops to his knees amidst scattering pine needles, revealing his vulnerability and pain. Nesryn quickly moves to aid him, but Sartaq’s cautious warning indicates the danger surrounding Falkan. Despite his injury, Falkan admits to following them, having overheard their conversation at the fire. His presence raises suspicion, especially given Sartaq’s mistrust of his motives, rooted in Falkan’s past as a merchant and his hidden magical heritage. Falkan’s attempt to explain his innocence highlights the complex interplay of trust and suspicion among the characters.

Falkan’s revelations deepen as he confesses his desire to regain lost years through magic, which he discovered he possessed but never fully harnessed. His bitterness about his lost youth and the fact that his brother’s and father’s magic ran in his family adds layers of personal regret. Nesryn’s insistence on helping him, despite Sartaq’s hostility, underscores her compassion and the importance of loyalty. Falkan’s frustrated admission that he could change forms at will illustrates his concealed magical ability, which he views as both a gift and a curse, further complicating perceptions of his character.

The narrative quickly shifts to their perilous return flight to the aerie, with Nesryn tending to Falkan’s wound as they soar through the sky. The flight is tense, with Falkan’s weight making the journey difficult and Sartaq’s pragmatic decision to prioritize safety over sentiment. The imagery of the mountains glowing with fires as the sun sets emphasizes the dramatic and dangerous environment. Kadara’s frantic scream signals their arrival and sets the stage for the tense arrival at the Mountain-Hall of Altun, where allies are gathered in anticipation, yet the fate of Falkan remains uncertain.

Upon landing, the scene reveals a complex web of political tension and unspoken concerns. Sartaq’s focus on questioning Kadara’s condition and the black blood on her talons hints at a deeper conflict involving her and possibly other supernatural elements. Nesryn and Borte’s observations suggest underlying guilt and unease among the characters, as they assess Kadara’s injuries and the mysterious circumstances surrounding her. The chapter ends with an atmosphere charged with suspicion and unresolved questions, setting the stage for further revelations about the characters’ motives and the unfolding conflict.