Bart’s magic had removed the curse upon the girl, releasing her true form. The Dragon Punchers watched in horror as she grew into a huge, raging, silver dragon. Unsure what to do, they attempted to defend themselves as the creature lashed out. As the initial effects wore off, the dragon’s faculties returned. It introduced itself as
Aethelynd—the very same individual both
Sakesu Windrider and
Sir Adamar Erendriel had encountered. They gifted Bart with the
Cup of Faith. With the artifact in hand, the Knight of Cups had fulfilled his duty.
Realizing that the end of the
oubliette had deposited them squarely at the center of the
Caedos Shroud, Mani transported the group back to the palace in
Mas'Uld. The group appreciated a hard-earned cleanup before tending to business.
Bart briefly met with the king to announce his success and to introduce Aethelynd. Afterwards, he and
Mani discussed what the future held. The princess was hesitant to remain behind in Mas’Uld, but recognized that the Dragon Punchers had business elsewhere. She returned Bart’s
Martyr's Heart, telling him it would do her no good without him there.
With all distractions finally out of the way, Wilf was close to rescuing his brother. He summoned
Calla to his chamber. The ranger was willing to strike a bargain with the fey for assistance with
Cordyceps. The promise of Wilf’s return to the Summer Court, sweetened by some personal dealings, allowed them to reach a satisfactory accord.
Taken with Aethelynd, Chari enlisted Wa’sim Marahid’s assistance in finding appropriate wooing attire. Clothed in one of Priya’s gowns, the monk went to visit the Dragon Puncher’s new companion. The two spent the evening eating and chatting into the wee hours of the morning.
While the rest of his party recuperated, Jinn donned a disguise and headed into the streets of the Satin Village. Dressed as
The Goldfinch, the rogue found his way to a meeting place of the
Hollow Thorn. To protect his family, he sought to put out a hit on himself. To his dismay, the order was taken by his old acquaintance, Riss.
In the morning, they would travel to Jarrow to secure Micah for the cleansing ritual.
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