Chapter 56

Elluin flees Kaan's suite after discovering he has spent twenty-three phases reconstructing her deceased Moonplume, which was scattered across the world. Before she can leave, Kaan reveals her full name—Elluin Raeve—and gives her a satchel of bloodstone currency, kissing her temple as she departs toward the western cove.

Elluin storms out of the stairwell and through Kaan's suite, angry at herself for following him into the cavern where she learned about her dead Moonplume. She grabs her knapsack and collects weapons—dragonscale and iron blades—before heading for the door. Kaan blocks her exit and presses a heavy leather satchel of bloodstone into her hand, telling her she'll need it to cross the border. He then takes her face in his hands and reveals her full name: Elluin Raeve. He explains that he has spent the past twenty-three phases reconstructing her Moonplume, which was scattered across the world after scavengers raided the impact zone, hoping to bring her spirit peace. He tells her that if she chases death alone, she will spend her life wondering why she screams in her sleep, calling for the beast she loved so much. He urges her to choose differently, saying he prays her bloodlust brings her peace as he feels knowing she exists. He kisses her temple swiftly and disappears into the adjacent room. Elluin considers chasing after him to ask if Raeve is truly her last name, but resists the impulse. She storms out the door toward the western cove of the Loff's rocky shore, leaving the city hutch behind, though she realizes she has no real intention of departing yet.