Chapter Sixty

The Valkyries complete their training by passing a grueling obstacle course designed to simulate the Blood Rite Qualifier, earning them recognition as warriors equal to Illyrian males. Cassian and Azriel orchestrate a secret observation by Illyrian leadership to demonstrate the Valkyries' capabilities and challenge traditional male-dominated warrior hierarchies.

After five days away, Cassian returns to find Nesta, Emerie, and Gwyn unified as a fighting unit. The three women perform the ribbon-cutting ceremony together, establishing themselves as Valkyries. Cassian and Azriel introduce an impossible obstacle course designed to teach the value of teamwork; the course changes nightly and requires three-person teams to succeed. Over two months, the priestesses train intensively in formation marching, synchronized combat, shield-work, and military tactics while attempting the course. Other priestesses—Roslin, Deirdre, Ananke, Ilana, and Lorelei—also cut the ribbon and become Valkyries. Nesta continues running the House's stairs nightly, driven by purpose rather than trauma. When Nesta, Gwyn, and Emerie finally complete the obstacle course, they discover that Cassian and Azriel have invited Lord Devlon and another male to observe—the course was secretly designed as a Blood Rite Qualifier to prove to Illyrian leadership that the Valkyries are as skilled as any male warriors. Devlon leaves angered but acknowledges their achievement. Despite being offered the opportunity to compete in the actual Blood Rite, all three women affirm they prefer being Valkyries.