Chapter 11

The protagonist and Utris navigate through Bothaim's winding streets while witnessing widespread panic among citizens rushing toward the Citadel. A intercepted message reveals that multiple moonfalls have been foreseen and that protective runes on the Citadel's arches may offer refuge, prompting desperate evacuation despite insufficient space for the entire city's population.

The protagonist and Utris move through Bothaim's narrow, labyrinthine alleyways during a sleet storm. The city is in chaos, with citizens and parchment larks streaming toward the Citadel in what appears to be an organized but fearful evacuation. Utris notes the unusual activity has intensified since his return to the Velvet Snog. The protagonist intercepts a parchment lark—a message from someone named G—that reveals the critical information: multiple moonfalls have been foreseen, some directly above Bothaim, and rumors suggest new protective runes on the Citadel's arches can shield against them. The sender urges the recipient and her unborn child to join others seeking refuge. The protagonist shares this with Utris, revealing the king had informed her the moonfalls are over fifteen cycles away. They observe the Citadel, surrounded by white walls and massive towers, with white-armored guards on Moltenmaws positioned overhead. The protagonist recognizes the gates cannot accommodate the city's entire population and expects the news to spread beyond Bothaim, worsening the crisis. After discussing their immediate next steps—discarding the body Utris carries—the protagonist internally wrestles with her next move, thinking of Kaan Vaegor and her determination not to hide while he risks his life.