The Island of Avernus burns

A Leviathan pirate has returned to the archipelago, prosecuting a vicious attack that leaves the South Wind Isle’s quarry in ruins. Dama Sigyn’s heroism during the pitched battle now has Vanna questioning the righteousness of the rebel Bael, as well as the wisdom of her pledge to aid his efforts against the Celestials.

Lovesick and confused, Kai is blindsided by Vanna’s hedging. He followed her into the depths of Bael’s conspiracy, recruiting other Volturnians disenchanted with Celestial rule. Vanna’s withdrawal leaves him isolated in his treason, with no easy way out but through.

Meanwhile, in the dwindling hours of Kelestina’s frivolous ball, Effie Strait lifts her head from the Anvil of Caste, the lines of a new scar already hardening behind her ear. After surviving her rushed Oration, Effie has elevated herself within the Court of Aquilon. She hopes her new station will speed her path to a Leviathan bond, but she quickly becomes swept up in the brutal politics of the Crystal Throne.

With Kelestina’s grand plans for Effie drawing closer to fruition, Effie finds herself on a collision course with Bael’s brewing rebellion, a conspiracy entangling her only family and the one boy she’s ever loved. Before the die is cast, both sisters will have to grapple with the difference between utilization and complicity. Their ability to parse the two will determine the fate of an entire people.