Chapter 50

Feysand makes a bargain with Bryaxis, an ancient death-god imprisoned beneath the library, to fight in the coming war in exchange for a window to see sunlight, moonlight, and stars. The group then departs the town house for the Illyrian war camp, with Feysand sharing a final moment before winnowing away to battle.

Feysand descends into the black pit at the heart of the library where Bryaxis, a darkness-consuming creature, is imprisoned. She offers the ancient being a bargain: freedom from its confinement in exchange for fighting in the war against Hybern. Bryaxis initially claims the dark library is its home, but Amren—who can sever the wards binding it—negotiates a compromise: a window carved high in the mountain to allow Bryaxis to see sunlight, moonlight, and stars. Bryaxis agrees, stipulating it will hunt and feed on the fear of Hybern's soldiers without restraint until the war ends. Feysand accepts and makes the bargain official. Later, when the group gathers to winnow to the Illyrian camp, Feysand conceals her new tattoo and tells Rhys that Amren remains researching the Book for alternative ways to stop the Cauldron and the king. Before departure, everyone shares a quiet moment in the town house, acknowledging the uncertainty of whether they'll return. Rhys learns about Bryaxis and responds with humor about needing to "redecorate" his lodgings. Feysand dismisses further concern about the Carver, declaring Bryaxis sufficient. As the group winnows away to war, Feysand promises they will see the town house and each other again, though she privately prays her words prove true.