Chapter 17 - A House Without Its Head

With Theron dead and Nerissa missing, Emberlyn faces a divided council—and a chance to claim authority on her own terms. Meanwhile, Soren’s examination of an injured captive draws him into a network of coercion hidden behind legitimate contracts. An unexpected meeting with healer Maksim offers fresh insight into Soren’s magic. But as the group prepares a rescue, Theron’s private records reveal an unsettling connection between Elodie’s abilities, an ageless girl, and a rag doll that shares her soul.