Book 4 : The War of Two Queens

Summary

In "The War of Two Queens" (Book 4 of the Blood and Ash series), Poppy faces the aftermath of Casteel's capture and imprisonment by the Blood Crown. With her newfound power as a primal of life, Poppy leads a war against the Ascended, seeking to free Casteel and unite the kingdoms of Solis and Atlantia. Political alliances, betrayals, and deep emotional struggles define the book as Poppy’s love for Casteel grows while she navigates her new role as Queen and prepares for the looming threat of the gods.

Chapter Recaps

Chapter 1 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Casteel’s Captivity in Carsodonia’s Dungeon (Underground Cell):

Casteel is trapped in a dark cell, restrained by shadowstone chains around his neck, wrists, and ankles. These chains are made from deity bone and iron, rendering him incapable of escaping or breaking free. His mind is in constant turmoil, focused on survival and enduring the physical and emotional torture he's experiencing.

Craven Attack:

Early on, a Craven crawls into his cell, drawn by the scent of blood. Casteel, despite being restrained, manages to kill the Craven using the chains binding him. This act demonstrates his fierce survival instincts, but also highlights his weakening physical state due to constant bloodletting by Isbeth's Handmaidens.

Reflections on Poppy:

Casteel’s internal monologue frequently shifts to his deep love for Poppy. He recalls her screams and the pain she endured during her attack by the Blood Queen, vowing to exact brutal revenge on Isbeth. His emotional focus is centered on keeping Poppy safe, and this thought is what drives him through the pain and hopelessness of captivity. “I would spend an eternity taking these bites if that meant she was safe. That it wasn’t her in this cell.”

The Imprint on His Hand:

Casteel frequently looks at the golden marriage imprint on his palm, which serves as a connection to Poppy, reminding him of her and what they mean to each other. This imprint gives him hope that Poppy is still alive and fighting.

Isbeth’s Entrance - Arrival of the Blood Queen:

The scene shifts when Isbeth, also known as Queen Ileana, enters Casteel’s cell. She’s described in a tight white gown, emphasizing her cold and calculating demeanor. Her entrance is accompanied by the ominous presence of her Handmaidens, who stand guard, eerily quiet and dressed in black. A sharp exchange of words occurs between Casteel and Isbeth, where Casteel mocks her and expresses his hatred for her. Despite being bound and tortured, he defies her with his characteristic sarcasm and wit: "Yeah, but I can clean up. You? You can’t wash off that stench or feed that away. That shit is inside you."

Isbeth’s Maternal Claim:

The Blood Queen claims she was a mother to Poppy when she was young, trying to manipulate Casteel by suggesting she cared deeply for her daughter. However, Casteel dismisses this claim, telling her she is "nothing" to Poppy. He accuses Isbeth of sending Poppy to Duke Teerman, who subjected her to years of abuse. Isbeth appears visibly pained by this but continues to justify her past actions, even flinching when Casteel recounts the horrors Poppy endured under the Duke.

Isbeth: “I would’ve done anything to stop her from experiencing even one second of pain.”

Casteel: “That is on you. You don’t get to blame anyone else for that and relieve yourself of guilt.”

The Golden Revenant, Callum:

Accompanying Isbeth is Callum, a tall male Revenant with golden hair and pale blue eyes. His presence is sinister, and he is heavily armed, with shadowstone daggers and swords strapped to his body. Callum is a calm, calculating character, and although quiet for much of the scene, his menacing aura is clear.

Casteel’s Determination:

Despite being tortured and manipulated, Casteel refuses to give Isbeth any information about Malec, the original King of Atlantia, whom Poppy has threatened to kill. Isbeth, shocked that Malec is still alive, tries to coerce Casteel into revealing his location, but he stands firm, knowing Poppy’s plan and believing in her strength.

Poppy’s Message - King Jalara’s Head:

Isbeth reveals a gruesome message sent by Poppy—King Jalara’s severed head. The revelation fills Casteel with immense pride. His reaction is one of laughter and satisfaction as he realizes that Poppy has become even more formidable and vicious in her pursuit of revenge. Casteel's pride in Poppy’s actions is overwhelming, and he expresses his approval: “That’s…gods, that’s my Queen.”

Isbeth’s Warning:

Although she tries to manipulate Casteel emotionally, even expressing a twisted form of maternal love for Poppy, Isbeth makes it clear that she has plans for both Casteel and Poppy. She warns him that her plans are already in motion and that Poppy’s rise to power will serve a larger purpose—one that is deeply intertwined with the fate of Malec and Atlantia. However, she does not reveal the specifics of her plan, leaving an ominous cloud over the future events.

Callum’s Torture - The Chapter Ends Brutally:

In the final moments of the chapter, Callum moves in to torture Casteel further. The scene is violent, and the chapter closes with the promise of more pain and suffering for Casteel, as the shadowstone blade strikes him.

Chapter 2 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy’s Campaign in Massene

Poppy leads a mission through The Pinelands, a dark, swampy forest region filled with insects and danger, near the walled city of Massene, located close to Oak Ambler and along the eastern coast of Solis. The group must pass through the woods, which are rife with crude symbols and eerie sensations, remnants of the Dead Bones Clan—an ancient, cannibalistic group once living near the Blood Forest. Poppy is preparing to seize Massene as part of her larger strategy to free Casteel and overthrow the Blood Crown. With only a small battalion and the wolven accompanying her, Poppy knows they cannot wait for reinforcements from the former Atlantian King Valyn Da’Neer or the larger armies led by other generals. The urgency is heightened by the fact that Ascended within Massene have been leading mortals into the woods, feeding on them, and leaving them to turn into Craven. "We can’t wait any longer… the Craven attacks were becoming more frequent, and each group larger than the one before."

Poppy’s Anguish and Determination:
Throughout this chapter, Poppy's emotional turmoil is palpable. She is still deeply affected by the loss of Casteel, whom she hasn't seen in 23 days since he sacrificed himself to save her. As she reflects on those days without him, Poppy’s thoughts keep drifting back to his warmth, smile, and touch. The pain of not knowing what has been done to him fuels her relentless pursuit of justice. “Twenty-three days had passed since he’d given himself over to a monster... since I’d last seen him.”

Conflict with Malik:
Poppy also reflects on the betrayal of Casteel’s brother, Malik, and the sadness and anger she feels over his actions. Malik had been held captive for a century, and while Poppy understands he is a victim, she cannot ignore the betrayal that led to Casteel’s capture. The words of Valyn, Casteel’s father, weigh heavily on her mind: “Make his death as quick and painless as possible.”

The Gruesome Discovery at Massene

The group moves toward the Massene Rise, a heavily fortified wall surrounding the city. It is here that they make a disturbing discovery that shakes everyone. As they approach the gate, they find dozens of bodies, impaled at their wrists and feet, hanging from the walls. These victims had been stripped and impaled by the Ascended as a show of power. What makes it more personal for Poppy is that the faces of the victims were veiled—just like the one Poppy wore when she was the Maiden. "Their faces… were all shrouded in the same veil I had been forced to wear, held in place by gold chains." The sight of these veiled bodies sparks an uncontrollable rage in Poppy. She struggles with her Primal essence, the eather coursing through her veins, which threatens to unleash her godly powers in a storm of wrath and retribution. The scene is a visceral reminder of the cruelty of the Ascended and the way they have ruled through fear.

Taking the Rise:
Despite her overwhelming anger, Poppy manages to maintain control. She coordinates with Kieran, Naill, and Delano, using a stealth attack on the Rise to eliminate the guards. With a mixture of her Primal powers and the team’s crossbows, they systematically take out the soldiers manning the walls. "The snap of their necks, one after another in quick succession…"The wolven, led by Vonetta, also play a crucial role, moving swiftly through the woods and taking out guards. The team infiltrates the city gates, breaching the outer defenses.

Cauldra Manor and the Barracks:
After securing the gate, Poppy, Kieran, and their allies move into Cauldra Manor, where the Ascended are believed to be hiding. They find themselves in a bloody battle against the guards stationed outside the manor. Poppy orders the survivors to surrender, vowing that no harm will come to those who do. Several of the Ascended inside the manor are quickly subdued.

Duke Silvan:
The final confrontation in the chapter is with Duke Silvan, the ruler of Massene. The Duke is smug and defiant, showing no remorse for the deaths of the mortals on the gates. He taunts Poppy, asserting that her efforts to overthrow the Blood Crown will end in disaster and bloodshed. “You will win no war. All you will accomplish is terror… and the kingdoms will drown in rivers of crimson.”His taunting pushes Poppy to the edge, and in a cold rage, she stabs him with a bloodstone dagger, killing him and ensuring a quick, but not painless, death. The death of the Duke is swift, but the lingering words he leaves behind plant doubt in Poppy’s mind about the future of her campaign.

This chapter captures the dark intensity of Poppy’s journey as she fights to reclaim her husband and bring justice to the people of Solis.

Chapter 3 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy's Guilt and Anguish:
The chapter opens with Poppy reflecting on the twenty-eight days since Casteel was captured. The emotional toll of his absence manifests as guilt, helplessness, and anger. She is haunted by the "ifs"—the choices she believes could have prevented his capture. Her emotions are so intense that they affect her control over her Primal essence and the world around her. "The essence of the gods was coming to the surface when I wasn’t using it to take away pain or heal." Poppy’s desperation causes her to lose control of her powers, making the entire building tremble. Kieran, sensing her turmoil, gently pulls her back from the edge, reminding her of her strength and encouraging her to accept that it’s okay to not always be in control.

Struggling to Eat and Sleep:
Poppy's grief over Casteel’s absence also affects her physically. She has trouble eating and sleeping, which Kieran points out. The fact that even his name causes her pain shows how deep her sorrow runs. “The breath I took stung. His name hurt. I didn’t like to think it, let alone say it.”

The Growing Tension in Massene

Poppy and her allies are now at Cauldra Manor, having successfully taken control of Massene. However, the strain of leadership and the preparations for war weigh heavily on her. The general unease among the Atlantian soldiers is palpable, especially from the older generals like Aylard, who regard Poppy with wariness and distrust due to her origins and her growing godly powers. "Many of the older Atlantians were cautious of me… because I was many things they hadn’t expected."

Reaver, the Draken:
Reaver, the massive black and purple draken, has a looming presence in this chapter. Poppy reflects on her inability to read the emotions of the draken, which is unsettling. There is also a playful yet tense dynamic between Kieran and Reaver, as the draken seems to enjoy unsettling the wolven. “I really hoped it wasn’t people… or cute animals.”

Poppy's Plans for Oak Ambler:
The group is planning an upcoming siege on Oak Ambler, and Poppy is deeply involved in strategizing for minimal loss of life. The impending war weighs heavily on her, as she reflects on the moral dilemma of leading an army and the risk of innocent lives being lost in the conflict. "I fully believed there were steps that could prevent unnecessary loss of life on both sides." Despite the weight of responsibility, Poppy feels frustrated that she wasn't allowed to participate in the more dangerous parts of the plan, such as entering Oak Ambler with Vonetta. Kieran reminds her that she is the Queen and must think of the bigger picture, but Poppy struggles with the double standard that expects her to stay behind while others take risks. "Why is it when a Prince or a King decides to place themselves in danger... but when a Queen wishes to do the same, it suddenly becomes a thing they must be advised against?"

Vonetta and Emil’s Return:
As the chapter progresses, Vonetta and Emil return from Oak Ambler, where they have been scouting and spreading word of the impending siege. Their efforts to rally support among the mortals seem to have been successful, as many of the people they spoke to were ready to rebel against the Ascended. “It was like they were ready to hear that someone was doing something about the Ascended.” Poppy had taken a risk by revealing her true nature to the mortals in Oak Ambler—that she is not only the Queen of Atlantia but also a god. This revelation shook the people and made them question their loyalty to the Ascended, who had long claimed the gods supported them."Some didn’t believe the part about you being a god. They think the evil Atlantians somehow manipulated you."

The Missive from the Ravarels:
The chapter ends with Emil delivering a missive from Duke and Duchess Ravarel, who rule over Oak Ambler. The message, written in red ink, is a blunt refusal of Poppy’s demands.“We agree to nothing.” This response confirms Poppy’s fear that the Ravarels will not surrender, forcing a siege of Oak Ambler and increasing the stakes for the upcoming battle.

This chapter focuses on Poppy’s emotional battle and the rising tension as war looms. It shows her determination to do what is right for her people, even as she struggles with personal grief and the responsibility of leadership.

Bottom of Form

Chapter 4 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Location: Cauldra Manor, an old estate in the city of Massene.(Cauldra Manor is depicted as a grand but deteriorating structure with dark, winding halls, old books, and ancient portraits. It is located in Massene, a city that Poppy and her forces have recently taken over from the Ascended. The manor itself has a sense of age and mystery, contributing to the eerie, haunted atmosphere as Poppy investigates its hidden knowledge.)

Recurring Nightmares:
Poppy is haunted by nightmares from her childhood, where her parents were killed by Craven and she was attacked. In her dreams, she recalls the terrifying presence of the faceless man in black, whom she associates with death and fear. Her sleep is also plagued by visions of her husband, Casteel, being tortured, which leaves her emotionally exhausted and contributes to her growing anxiety and fear. "My closest friend and lover. My husband and King. My heartmate." Poppy’s emotional and physical exhaustion is evident as she sleeps poorly, averaging only three hours a night.

Kieran’s Support:
Kieran continues to sleep near Poppy in his wolven form, providing her with emotional comfort. His presence is a reminder that he, too, is grieving. The two share a deep bond, one of friendship and loyalty, and it’s clear that Kieran is just as worried about Casteel as Poppy is. "Kieran had known him his entire life... There was love between them." Kieran gently encourages Poppy to rest more and suggests she take herbs to help her sleep, but Poppy declines, unwilling to let her guard down, even in her most vulnerable moments.

Poppy's Discovery in the Library:
Unable to sleep, Poppy ventures to the library in Cauldra Manor. While searching through old ledgers, she stumbles upon a significant discovery. The records mention the Rite, Ascension, and the Chosen, terms that should not exist in a time before the Ascended. "Rite. Ascension. Chosen. Three things that hadn’t existed before the Ascended ruled Solis." This leads Poppy to question everything she’s been taught. She suspects the Rite may have existed long before the Ascended came to power, possibly during a time when the gods were still awake.

A Cryptic Encounter with Vessa, the Widow:
Poppy is interrupted by Vessa, an elderly woman who has been living in the manor. Vessa seems to have knowledge of ancient events, speaking cryptically about the past. She refers to the first mortal as being created from "the flesh of a Primal and the fire of a draken," hinting at an ancient origin for humanity. "Vessa is what I was once called." Vessa’s behavior becomes erratic as she starts reciting the prophecy of the Harbinger of Death and Destruction, clearly believing Poppy is the Harbinger. This moment escalates when Vessa unexpectedly tries to stab Poppy, causing the Queen to defend herself without harming the old woman.

A Threatening Prophecy - The Harbinger of Death:
Vessa’s belief in the prophecy is unwavering. She accuses Poppy of being the Harbinger, repeating the familiar lines about her being born from a grave misdeed, with blood full of ash and ice, and destined to remake the realms. This shakes Poppy, but she remains firm in her rejection of the prophecy. "I wait for you. I wait for death." Despite Vessa’s attack, Poppy shows mercy by ordering Kieran and the others to place her in a locked room rather than imprison her in a cell.

The Rite Before the Ascended:
After the incident with Vessa, Poppy reflects on her discoveries in the ledger. She realizes that the Rite must have existed long before the Ascended began using it to create more of their kind. This revelation suggests that the gods may have been involved in selecting third sons and daughters long before the Ascended came to power. "Did it stop because the gods went to sleep?" Poppy and Kieran discuss the possibility that the Ascended may have copied the gods’ Rite, and they speculate on its connection to the creation of Revenants.
This chapter further explores Poppy's journey of self-discovery and the ancient secrets hidden in the history of the gods and the Rite. The tension between her mortal and godly sides continues to build, setting the stage for deeper revelations and challenges.

Chapter 5 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Location: Cauldra Manor Ruins
The chapter begins in the overgrown ruins of Massene, specifically among the vines and pine trees that surround the decaying Cauldra Manor. The remains of old buildings and toppled pillars, overrun by weeds, roots, and wildflowers, create an atmosphere of abandonment and decay. Waist-high weeds have overtaken the streets, while lavender and yellow wildflowers grow among broken carriage wheels, contributing to the eerie and somber mood. The ruins of a once-great city symbolize both the passage of time and the haunting weight of Poppy's responsibilities. The desolate surroundings mirror Poppy’s internal conflict as she grapples with feelings of helplessness and anxiety over Casteel's capture and her role as Queen. The ruined setting reflects her longing for action, trapped in a location far from where she believes she could free him.

Poppy and Delano's Arrival:

Poppy walks through the ruins with Delano (in his wolven form), who stays close and protective, scanning the area for threats. Poppy reflects on her emotional state, the 30 days since Casteel was captured, and her guilt over not being in Carsodonia to free him.

Reaver’s Appearance:

Reaver, one of the draken, follows Poppy and Delano. He is in his mortal form and perched on a decaying pillar, completely naked, which surprises Poppy. His sharp, sarcastic demeanor contrasts with his striking, otherworldly appearance. Reaver's presence introduces an ominous yet enigmatic energy to the scene.

Bond with the Draken:

Poppy learns that the draken are bonded to her because she carries the blood of Nyktos and the Consort, although she is not a Primal. Reaver explains that the draken will answer her will, similar to the bond between a Primal and their subjects.

Godhood and Mortality:

The conversation shifts to what can kill a god, with shadowstone being lethal to both gods and mortals. Reaver elaborates that despite Poppy's power, she has yet to complete the Culling, which means she hasn’t fully realized her abilities and is still vulnerable. Poppy also learns that, as a god, she will need to feed on blood.

Poppy’s Struggle with Identity:

Poppy grapples with the revelation that she is not just a powerful being, but a potential Harbinger of Death according to prophecy. Reaver's comments about her connection to the Primal of Life and her father Ires further complicate her feelings. She feels an increasing urgency to act, particularly regarding freeing Casteel and Ires.

Introduction of the Small Box:

Kieran, Emil, and Perry approach Poppy, with Kieran carrying a small, ornate box delivered by a Royal Guard from the Queen of Solis. The Guard, after delivering the box, killed himself, adding an unsettling tone to the encounter. The box can only be opened with Poppy’s blood, indicating that it is sealed with Primal magic. Poppy hesitates but decides to open the box, cutting her thumb to release the old magic that holds it shut.

Shocking Revelation:

The box contains Casteel's wedding ring, still attached to the severed finger on which Poppy had placed it. This shocking discovery leaves Poppy and the others stunned, symbolizing not just a taunt from the Blood Queen but a deep personal violation. The use of the ring and finger brings a chilling intensity to the scene, reinforcing the danger and urgency of the situation.

The chapter conveys a tense, eerie atmosphere, blending the desolation of the ruins with Poppy's internal struggles. The decayed landscape, haunted by memories of war and destruction, serves as a backdrop for Poppy’s rising frustration, desperation, and sense of foreboding about what the future holds for her, Casteel, and the fate of the realms.

Chapter 6 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Location: Near Cauldra Manor, Ruins of Massene

The chapter takes place primarily near Cauldra Manor, a crumbling, decayed structure within the ruins of Massene. The dark, ruined landscape serves as a stark backdrop to the emotionally intense events that unfold as Poppy processes her discovery of Casteel's severed finger and wedding ring in a box sent by the Blood Queen. The ominous and desolate environment amplifies the feelings of helplessness, anger, and grief Poppy experiences.

Poppy's Shock and Rage-Casteel’s Ring and Finger:

Poppy is faced with the horrific sight of Casteel’s severed finger, still wearing his wedding ring, inside the small, ruby-adorned box delivered by the Blood Queen. The sight causes overwhelming grief, guilt, and horror. Poppy believes her actions antagonized the Blood Queen, making her responsible for this act of cruelty. The realization breaks her emotionally, and she struggles to control her immense power.

Manifestation of Eather:

In her grief and fury, Poppy’s eather (her ancient, god-like power) manifests in dangerous ways. Silvery-white light mixed with shadows swirls around her, causing nearby wolven, including Delano and Reaver, to react nervously. Her power becomes unstable as she vows vengeance on the Blood Queen, planning to tear through Solis, leaving destruction in her wake.

Kieran's Plea:

Kieran steps in, trying to stop Poppy from succumbing to her overwhelming desire for revenge. He reminds her that acting on impulse could lead to the deaths of countless innocents, something neither she nor Casteel would want. His words break through her rage as he explains that her violent impulses mirror what the Blood Queen would want, not what Poppy stands for.

Kieran's Steadfast Loyalty: Despite the danger of confronting Poppy in her wrathful state, Kieran bravely approaches her. His loyalty is unwavering, and he speaks of how both he and Casteel care for her deeply. Kieran grounds her by reminding her of her responsibilities and the devastating consequences of acting on vengeance.

The Notam Influence:

Kieran reveals that Poppy’s raw emotional state triggers the notam, the bond between her and the wolven, causing him and the wolven to feel compelled to shift into their animal forms to protect her.

Emotional Breakdown:

After Kieran calms her down, Poppy breaks down emotionally, consumed with guilt for Casteel’s suffering. She acknowledges that her feelings of vengeance are not the way forward and thanks Kieran for stopping her from making a terrible mistake.

Grief for Casteel:

Poppy grapples with the knowledge that Casteel is enduring unimaginable pain. She expresses her deep sorrow, asking Kieran why Casteel sacrificed himself, knowing the torment he would face. Kieran’s response reminds her that Casteel’s love and devotion to her are what drove his decisions—he would do anything for her, just as she would for him.

A Resolution:

Despite the grief, Poppy begins to accept that Casteel is still alive, as the marriage imprint on her palm confirms. This gives her hope, though the pain remains. She holds onto Casteel’s wedding ring, a symbol of their eternal bond, and resolves to get him back.

Strategizing for Casteel’s Rescue-Immediate Plans:

Poppy acknowledges that the war against the Blood Crown must continue, but her priority is rescuing Casteel. She discusses the logistics with Kieran, deciding that they must first take Oak Ambler as planned, but then she will head to Carsodonia to rescue Casteel.

Crown Regent Appointment:

Kieran advises Poppy to appoint a Crown Regent to oversee Atlantia and their armies while she focuses on rescuing Casteel. After some consideration, Poppy decides to appoint Vonetta as the Crown Regent.

Draken Support:

Poppy also realizes that the draken will be crucial to their success. She plans to take Reaver with her to Carsodonia, knowing his power will be invaluable in the rescue effort.

Kieran’s Support:

Kieran offers himself as a source of blood for Poppy if she ever needs to feed. He reassures her that, while it’s typically an intimate act, he offers out of friendship and loyalty, knowing that Casteel would trust him to do so. Kieran refuses to let Poppy go to Carsodonia alone, insisting that he will be by her side. His bond with Casteel and Poppy is too deep for him to allow her to face the dangers alone.

Casteel’s Abduction-Acknowledging the Danger:

Kieran and Poppy reflect on the danger and unknowns surrounding Casteel’s condition. They acknowledge that their rescue mission will be perilous, but they remain determined to free him.

The Mines of Carsodonia:

Kieran reveals that he and Casteel had once infiltrated Carsodonia through the mines in the Elysium Peaks, suggesting this as a potential route for their upcoming rescue mission. However, they also recognize that it will be heavily guarded.

Chapter 6 is a deeply emotional chapter that explores Poppy's grief, anger, and guilt over Casteel’s capture. With Kieran’s unwavering support, Poppy is able to regain control and refocus on the larger mission: rescuing Casteel and continuing the fight against the Blood Crown. Plans for the future are set in motion, with decisions about allies (Reaver, Vonetta) and strategy (Carsodonia, the mines). This chapter reinforces themes of loyalty, love, and resilience as Poppy prepares for the next steps in the war.

Chapter 7 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Location: Casteel’s Cell in Carsodonia

The chapter alternates between two primary settings: Casteel’s dark, damp prison cell in Carsodonia, and Cauldra Manor where Poppy and her allies are preparing for the next steps in the war. The contrasting locations highlight the stark difference between Casteel’s suffering in captivity and Poppy’s determined planning for his rescue.

Casteel's Condition:
Casteel, still chained in his cell, reflects on his physical and emotional state. He has lost his left ring finger, which was sent to Poppy along with his wedding ring. The wound from the severed finger hasn't healed, a sign that he desperately needs to feed to regain his strength, but he is hesitant because of the emotional toll it takes to think of feeding from Poppy.

Memories of Poppy:
Casteel reminisces about intimate moments with Poppy, particularly a sensual memory of feeding from her aboard the ship to Oak Ambler. His longing for her, both emotionally and physically, is palpable as he tries to focus on anything but his need for her blood.

Frustration and Guilt:
He feels intense guilt over knowing that Poppy likely received his severed finger and wedding ring, imagining the pain it must have caused her. His anger toward Isbeth (the Blood Queen) grows, and he dreams of revenge but remains helpless in his current state.

The Arrival of the Handmaiden (Revenant):
A Handmaiden arrives at Casteel’s cell, interrupting his brooding thoughts. She is the same Revenant who had previously handled Delano at Castle Redrock. She behaves erratically, humming off-key and making sarcastic remarks, which unsettles Casteel.

Cryptic Conversation:
The Handmaiden hints at deeper knowledge about Poppy's powers and the ancient Primal wards that Poppy broke when she ascended into her godhood. She cryptically refers to Poppy as being descended not just from Nyktos but from someone or something even more ancient, teasing Casteel about his ignorance of this fact.

Connection to Ian:
The Handmaiden reveals a subtle connection to Ian, Poppy's brother, as she reminisces about him and how he mentioned that Poppy tends to ramble. This brief moment humanizes the Handmaiden and establishes her familiarity with Poppy's past.

Warning About the Blood Queen’s Power:
She warns Casteel that the Blood Queen is capable of unimaginable destruction and suggests that she has brought something far more powerful to life, hinting at the Blood Queen’s true ambition to remake the realms.

Poppy Preparing for War:
Back at Cauldra Manor, Poppy is focused on the war effort. The arrival of the draken boosts morale, and the army is preparing to march on Oak Ambler. Poppy plans to use the victory as a stepping stone before embarking on her personal mission to rescue Casteel.

Crown Regent Appointment:
Poppy meets with Vonetta and appoints her as the Crown Regent, temporarily granting her the authority to act on behalf of the Crown while Poppy goes to rescue Casteel.

The Letter from Isbeth:

Poppy reflects on a letter she received from the Blood Queen, which was enclosed with Casteel’s severed finger and wedding ring. The letter, signed "Mother," is full of manipulative language, expressing "regret" for the pain caused but blaming Poppy for provoking the Queen’s actions. Poppy’s internal conflict about Isbeth continues to deepen, as she struggles to reconcile her feelings toward the woman who gave birth to her but has caused her so much pain.

Conversation with Vonetta:

Poppy and Vonetta share a moment of vulnerability. They talk about Ian and his kindness, remembering his warmth despite being an Ascended. Vonetta also discusses the disturbing nature of Isbeth and how it’s hard to understand what Malec might have seen in her, leading them to speculate about whether Isbeth has always been this way or was changed by grief and loss.

Vows for the Future-Burning the Past:

Poppy decides to burn the letter from the Blood Queen, symbolically destroying the manipulative words that brought her pain. She expresses her determination to stop Isbeth from hurting anyone else, foreshadowing the inevitable confrontation between mother and daughter.

Chapter 7 delves deeply into the emotional and psychological states of both Casteel and Poppy. Casteel’s imprisonment and suffering contrast with Poppy’s preparation for war and her determination to rescue him. Both characters are driven by their love for each other, but also weighed down by guilt and pain. The chapter hints at larger, more ancient forces at play, especially through the Handmaiden’s mysterious knowledge of Poppy’s true heritage and the Blood Queen’s plans to reshape the realms.

Chapter 8 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 8 delves deeply into two interconnected, intense sequences: a dream-like connection between Poppy and Casteel in a mystical cavern, and a terrifying awakening in reality that brings death and destruction to Poppy's camp. This chapter oscillates between passion, longing, confusion, and terror as Poppy navigates between realms of consciousness and grapples with the rising powers around her.

Dream Connection Between Poppy and Casteel:
Poppy finds herself in a peaceful, dream-like vision of Casteel’s cavern at Spessa’s End. The warm, churning waters and lilac-scented air create a serene atmosphere. It is a stark contrast to the tense situation Poppy finds herself in as the war looms.

Casteel's Appearance:
To her astonishment, Casteel appears in the dream, as real as ever. He looks thinner, with several weeks’ worth of facial hair, a change that adds a sense of realism to this dream.

Passion and Longing:
The dream quickly becomes intensely intimate as Poppy and Casteel embrace and share passionate kisses. They both seem to acknowledge each other’s presence, though Poppy initially believes this is just a dream. Casteel’s words reveal his desperate longing for Poppy, expressing how much he misses her and the pain he feels being apart from her.

The Dream Feels Real-Heartmates Revelation:
As the dream progresses, Poppy begins to question whether this is truly a dream or something more. Casteel mentions her eyes—saying they have streaks of silver piercing the green—which has never happened before. The realization dawns on both of them: they are heartmates. Casteel then tells Poppy to "find him" before the dream fades, leaving them both shaken.

Pine and Lilac Scent: Upon waking, Poppy is stunned to find that the scent of pine (associated with Casteel) and lilac (from the dream) clings to her braid, making her question the true nature of the dream. Kieran confirms that he can smell Casteel as well, which suggests the dream was more than just a fantasy. Kieran recalls something his father once said about heartmates being able to walk in each other's dreams, which further solidifies the extraordinary nature of their connection.

The Mysterious Awakening-Storm and Chaos:
Before Poppy and Kieran can fully process what happened, chaos erupts in the camp. A storm suddenly rolls in, accompanied by lightning, thunder, and a sense of dark, primal power. The ground quakes, and the skies are filled with draken, some of whom are struck by lightning and plummet to the earth.

Draken Deaths:
Poppy races outside to find sixteen draken dead, their bodies charred and lifeless. Reaver explains that only the Primal of Life can restore life to a being of two worlds (such as draken), meaning Poppy cannot save them. The devastation is overwhelming, and Poppy feels guilt for having brought them into this situation, blaming herself for their deaths.

Confronting Vessa:
Realizing that something darker is at play, Poppy suspects Vessa, a Handmaiden who had been present earlier and had warned Poppy of death. Poppy bursts into Vessa’s room and finds her surrounded by reddish-black smoke, similar to the smoke that came from the box Isbeth sent. Vessa is at the center of a bloody circle, and her wrists are mangled. Her disturbing chant confirms that she serves Isbeth, who is the orchestrator behind this catastrophe.

Poppy's Fury:
Enraged, Poppy harnesses the full power of the eather inside her, unleashing it on Vessa. The primal magic rips through the swirling smoke and strikes Vessa, but only her robes are left behind, signaling her death. Poppy’s power is now fully unleashed, and her emotions are fueled by both anger and a growing awareness of the Primal magic she commands.

Chapter 8 is a whirlwind of emotions and action. The connection between Poppy and Casteel is strengthened through their shared dream, solidifying their heartmate bond. Meanwhile, the sudden storm, the deaths of the draken, and the revelation that Vessa was working for Isbeth all heighten the sense of impending danger. Poppy’s power is growing, but so too is the darkness around her, as she continues to navigate the path toward rescuing Casteel and ending the war.

Chapter 9 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 9 continues the aftermath of the tragic events in Chapter 8, where Poppy is forced to grapple with the devastating loss of the sixteen draken. The mood is solemn and reflective as the survivors try to make sense of the draken deaths, the appearance of Vessa, and the deeper mysteries surrounding the Primals and their ancient powers.

Grieving the Fallen Draken:
The chapter opens with Poppy reflecting on the tragic deaths of the draken. Nithe, one of the surviving draken, burns the bodies on pyres while Poppy stays until all that remains is ash, a scene that deeply weighs on her.

Reaver’s Revelation:
As Poppy, Kieran, Reaver, and their trusted allies gather to make sense of the situation, Reaver shares an important revelation: Vessa smelled of Death, but not in the typical sense. She carried the essence of the Primal of Death.

A New Primal of Death - Kolis:
Reaver reveals that Nyktos was never the true Primal of Death. Instead, there was another before him named Kolis, an ancient Primal whose essence of death was present during the events that killed the draken. Kolis's essence is described as oily, dark, and suffocating, aligning with what Poppy and Kieran sensed earlier.

Erased History:
The group reflects on how Kolis's name has been wiped from history, much like other knowledge of the Primals. Vonetta remarks that Kolis sounds suspiciously similar to Solis, hinting at a possible connection between Kolis and the false narrative created by the Ascended.

The Revenants' Origin:
Reaver explains that Revenants were the result of Kolis’s "crowning achievement." Kolis used his essence to create these beings—neither alive nor dead—from the third sons and daughters, who carry embers of eather within them. This sheds light on why the Ascended have been using the Rite to create Revenants, copying the ancient method that Kolis developed.

Embers of Eather in Mortals:
Reaver also explains that all mortals carry a dormant ember of eather, a result of their creation by Eythos (the first Primal of Life) and Nektas (the father of the draken). However, the ember is stronger in third sons and daughters, making them capable of becoming Revenants or Ascended.

Isbeth’s Power:
The group concludes that Isbeth has learned to harness the essence of Kolis, explaining her ability to create Revenants and possibly even kill draken. The Duke and Vessa had knowledge of the prophecy and served the True Crown, meaning Isbeth likely shared her knowledge of Kolis’s essence with them.

Malec’s Betrayal:
It’s revealed that Malec must have betrayed the draken by sharing the secret of Kolis’s essence with Isbeth, a betrayal that Reaver sees as the reason behind the draken's deaths. Reaver believes that this power was what killed Jadis, a fellow draken, although Poppy tries to hold on to hope that Jadis might still be alive.

Guilt Over the Draken’s Deaths:
Poppy feels an overwhelming sense of guilt for summoning the draken and leading them to their deaths. Kieran tries to comfort her, telling her that she couldn’t have known what Vessa was capable of. He acknowledges that Poppy’s kindness makes her a great leader but cautions that she must learn when not to be kind.

The Limits of Poppy’s Powers:
Poppy reflects on Reaver’s statement that her touch cannot bring back beings of two worlds, such as draken or wolven. This revelation deeply troubles her, as she realizes that she may not be able to save the people she loves if they were to die.

The Joining - A Glimmer of Hope:
As the chapter closes, Poppy contemplates the Joining, a sacred act that would tie Kieran’s life to hers and Casteel’s. By doing so, Kieran’s lifespan would be extended, and Poppy and Casteel would never have to face the pain of losing him. This thought brings a sliver of hope to an otherwise dark moment.

Chapter 9 deepens the sense of peril surrounding Poppy, her allies, and the draken. The introduction of Kolis as the true Primal of Death, along with the revelations about the origins of the Revenants, expands the scope of the conflict. Isbeth’s growing power and the realization that Malec has played a part in her rise heighten the stakes. Meanwhile, Poppy’s reflections on the Joining hint at a potential solution to one of her greatest fears—losing Kieran—but also foreshadow the difficult choices she will have to make in the battles to come.

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Chapter 10 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 10 is a pivotal moment where Poppy asserts her authority and prepares for a critical phase of the war against the Blood Crown. It opens with Poppy in quiet reflection, focusing on Casteel's ring, which now hangs on a chain close to her heart. The chapter centers around a tense meeting with Valyn Da'Neer and the generals, as Poppy lays out her plans for taking Oak Ambler and later rescuing Casteel from Carsodonia.

Casteel’s Ring:
Poppy reflects on the ring, a symbol of her bond with Casteel, now safe on a chain. She clings to this as she prepares for the difficult tasks ahead.

The Crown:
Vonetta encourages Poppy to wear her crown, reminding her that she must show the Atlantian generals her full power and authority. Poppy reluctantly agrees, though she feels conflicted about wearing the crown while Casteel's remains in a chest. This emphasizes her longing for him and her determination to have him beside her again.

The Generals Arrive:
Valyn Da'Neer, Casteel's father, and several generals from Atlantia arrive. Valyn’s appearance, strikingly similar to Casteel’s, causes Poppy pain, as it reminds her of her husband’s absence. The generals include Lord Sven, Lizeth Damron (a wolven general), Odell Cyr, Murin, and Gayla La’Sere.

Reaver’s Presence:
The draken Reaver looms in the background, symbolizing the immense power on Poppy’s side, though his grief for the lost draken is palpable.

Poppy’s Plans:

Poppy lays out her plan to take Oak Ambler, a vital port city in Solis. She highlights the importance of controlling the port to restrict the Blood Crown's supply lines and forces. She is determined to avoid unnecessary bloodshed and destruction, focusing on the mortals’ safety while undermining the Ascended.

The Generals’ Concerns:
Some of the generals, notably Murin and Aylard, express skepticism about Poppy’s approach, particularly her emphasis on minimizing harm to mortals. They argue for a more brutal, effective strategy to secure victory. Murin also subtly insults Poppy, referencing her former life among the mortals.

Poppy’s Empathy and Experience:
Poppy uses her experience as a former mortal to explain why most mortals are too afraid to rebel against the Ascended. She outlines the deep-seated fear that the Ascended, viewed as gods, have instilled in the people.

Aylard’s Challenge:
Aylard dismisses Poppy’s concerns about the mortals, claiming she’s too focused on them and not enough on securing the future of her people. This triggers Poppy’s Primal power, as she allows some of her god-like essence to surface, silencing Aylard and the others.

Poppy’s Declaration:
Poppy asserts that she will choose both the mortals and the Atlantians. She declares herself not only as a Queen but as a god, demanding that they follow her lead. This display of power wins over many of the generals, including Lizeth, who pledges her loyalty by addressing Poppy as Meyaah Liessa.

The Risk of the Rescue Mission to Carsodonia:
After Oak Ambler is secured, Poppy reveals her intention to travel to Carsodonia to rescue Casteel. She announces that Vonetta will act as Crown Regent in her absence, a decision that garners mixed reactions from the generals.

Valyn’s Objection:
Valyn is deeply concerned for Poppy’s safety and opposes her plan to go to Carsodonia, arguing that it’s too dangerous. He emphasizes that no one in his family has ever returned from Carsodonia unscathed.

Poppy’s Determination:
Poppy stands firm, knowing that time is running out for Casteel. She forbids Valyn from accompanying her, knowing that Isbeth would use him as a weapon against Eloana. Valyn’s emotional appeal, acknowledging Poppy as part of his family, moves her but does not sway her decision.

Chapter 10 is a turning point in the novel, where Poppy fully embraces her role as both Queen and god. She navigates the difficult dynamics of leading a divided army while staying true to her principles. The emotional stakes are high, as Poppy’s determination to rescue Casteel conflicts with the concerns of those who love her. This chapter sets the stage for the upcoming battle for Oak Ambler and the dangerous mission to Carsodonia, leaving readers eager to see how Poppy’s bold decisions will unfold.

Chapter 11 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 11 takes us into a gritty and emotionally charged sequence as we follow Casteel’s desperate fight to survive, his encounter with his long-lost brother Malik, and the shocking revelations that follow.

Casteel's Desperation:

Casteel is physically weakened and struggling for survival in his prison cell, barely managing to kill a Craven and crafting a crude weapon from its bone. This emphasizes his dire state and relentless will to survive.

Poppy’s Dream Visit:

Reflecting on his dream-walk encounter with Poppy, Casteel realizes it wasn’t just a normal dream, which makes him ache for the lost opportunity to communicate vital information to her.

Hunger and Fatigue:

He is clearly suffering from the effects of hunger and exhaustion, struggling to stay awake, and physically weakening as he contemplates his next steps.

Malik’s Mysterious Entrance:

Casteel's brother, Malik, appears in Casteel’s cell, cloaked in shadows, and their initial interaction is tense. Malik’s appearance is well-kept, a stark contrast to Casteel’s condition, which immediately raises suspicions about his current alliance with Isbeth.

Tense Family Reunion:

Casteel’s reaction is filled with fury and betrayal. While there’s a brief moment of relief at seeing Malik alive, it quickly dissipates into anger as Casteel questions his brother’s loyalty. Malik’s calm demeanor in the face of Casteel’s rage only deepens the sense of betrayal.

Conversation About Betrayal:

Malik tries to explain his position, but Casteel presses him on why he would stand with Isbeth, accusing him of betraying their family and kingdom. Malik’s cryptic responses suggest that his alliance with Isbeth is more complicated than it appears.

Preela’s Death:

In a chilling revelation, Malik explains that Preela, his bonded wolven, was tortured and killed. Her bones were turned into daggers, one of which is likely in Poppy’s possession. This trauma may explain Malik’s emotional state and hints at why he may have “broken” under Isbeth’s influence.

Malik’s Ambiguity:

Throughout their conversation, Malik seems torn. He shows signs of still caring for Casteel, as he tends to his infected hand, but at the same time, his loyalty to Isbeth and his seeming indifference to his actions weigh heavily on Casteel. Malik’s emotional reaction to Preela’s death indicates he is not entirely cold or unfeeling, yet he remains a mystery.

The Handmaiden and Isbeth's Plans:

Malik mentions the Handmaiden’s visit to Casteel, hinting at her risky behavior. He also makes cryptic comments about Isbeth’s power and her ability to remake realms, which raises further questions about her endgame.

Malik’s Final Words-Foreshadowing a Reunion: Malik ominously suggests that Casteel will be reunited with Poppy soon, which leaves Casteel—and the reader—wondering what Malik knows and what he is not saying. His words carry a foreboding tone, suggesting that the situation is more dire and complex than it seems.

Chapter 11 is a pivotal chapter filled with emotional intensity, revelations, and foreshadowing. Malik’s true motivations remain unclear, but the trauma of losing Preela seems to have fundamentally altered him. Casteel’s anger and desperation only deepen as he grapples with the possibility that his brother may be beyond saving. The chapter sets the stage for further confrontations, with Malik’s cryptic words leaving readers eager to see how Casteel’s reunion with Poppy will unfold and what Isbeth’s ultimate plans are.

Chapter 12 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 12 shifts to Poppy’s viewpoint as she prepares for the upcoming battle while grappling with personal reflections, her leadership responsibilities, and the weight of truth and deception within her family and allies.

Vikter’s Legacy:

Poppy reflects on Vikter’s influence in her life. The dagger he gifted her on her sixteenth birthday brings back memories of his teachings and the hard lessons he imparted about leadership, compassion, and the burden of death. Vikter had always carried the weight of responsibility, ensuring the cursed were given peaceful deaths—a stark contrast to the cruelty of the Ascended.

Carrying Vikter’s Lessons Forward:

Poppy internalizes Vikter’s belief that leaders should take the same risks they expect others to take. This motivates her to lead Atlantia’s armies on the front lines, just as he once led by example.

Preparing for Battle:

Poppy meticulously arms herself with a variety of weapons, including the wolven dagger from Vikter and other bloodstone and iron blades. Her array of weapons symbolizes her readiness for both healing and combat, highlighting her dual nature as both a warrior and a protector.

The White Gown:

Poppy dons a white gown, reminiscent of her time as the Maiden, despite her deep discomfort with it. This strategic choice reflects her understanding that the people she leads will recognize her as the Maiden more than as their Queen. It’s a visual reminder of her past role, even though she now wears it in defiance.

Valyn’s Concern:

Valyn enters, noticing Poppy’s multitude of weapons and remarking on her being the deadliest weapon on the battlefield. He shares his concern for her and his belief that while her powers can be used to heal, they are also a powerful force in combat—something Poppy reluctantly accepts.

Soul Walking:

Poppy brings up her vivid dream of Casteel, asking Valyn about the possibility of heartmates walking in each other’s dreams. Valyn confirms this is called "soul walking," a rare occurrence that signifies the deep connection between heartmates. This validates Poppy’s experience, reinforcing the idea that her bond with Casteel transcends even physical separation.

The Truth About Isbeth:

In a pivotal moment, Valyn reveals that he knew the truth about the Blood Queen, Isbeth, for some time, although not from the beginning. He admits that he and Eloana kept the truth hidden, out of fear of the consequences and the impact it would have on Atlantia’s foundation. This admission adds another layer of betrayal and deceit to Poppy’s growing mistrust of those in power.

Regret and Guilt:

Valyn expresses deep regret for not telling Poppy, Casteel, or Malik the truth earlier. He acknowledges that by keeping this secret, he contributed to their vulnerability and unpreparedness in facing Isbeth, further straining Poppy’s already complex feelings toward him and Eloana.

Determination to Save Casteel:

Despite the heavy revelations, Poppy remains resolute in her mission to rescue Casteel. She reassures Valyn that Casteel is alive, showing him her marriage imprint as a symbol of their bond. Her determination to bring Casteel back, even if it means confronting Malik or facing dire risks, remains unshaken.

Tense Understanding with Valyn:

While Poppy doesn’t forgive Valyn and Eloana outright, she seems to understand the complexities of their decisions. The conversation ends on a note of uneasy resolution, with Valyn acknowledging the difficult road ahead and Poppy preparing herself mentally and physically for the battle.

Leading the Army:

Poppy’s arrival at the battlefield is met with respect and loyalty from the soldiers. She leads by example, embodying both strength and vulnerability as she steps into her role as leader. There is no need for grand speeches—her mere presence is enough to inspire those who follow her.

Kieran’s Support:

Kieran continues to be a steadfast supporter, voicing his distaste for her white gown but ultimately standing by her side. His unwavering loyalty underscores the deep bond he shares with both Poppy and Casteel, and his quiet presence is a reminder that Poppy is not alone in this fight.

The Emotional Moment Between Hisa and Lizeth-Be Careful, But Be Brave:

In a touching moment, Hisa and Lizeth, both key figures in Poppy’s army, share a brief but emotional exchange before the battle. Their words, “Be careful, but be brave,” encapsulate the ethos of the chapter and the upcoming war, serving as a reminder that courage is not the absence of fear but the strength to move forward in spite of it.

Chapter 12 serves as a quiet yet powerful moment of introspection and preparation before the battle begins. Poppy grapples with personal loss, betrayal, and the weight of leadership, all while staying focused on her mission to save Casteel. Her conversation with Valyn deepens the layers of truth and deception in her world, while the support of characters like Kieran and the rallying of her army highlight her growth as a leader. The chapter ends with a sense of calm before the storm, with Poppy and her army ready to face the challenges ahead.

Chapter 13 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 13 delves into Poppy’s first steps toward war, highlighting the emotional and physical burden she faces as she navigates the delicate balance between leadership, responsibility, and the brutal realities of battle. The chapter is filled with tension, internal conflict, and foreshadowing as Poppy leads her small group toward Oak Ambler, hoping to avoid bloodshed.

Journey to Oak Ambler:

As Poppy, Kieran, and Emil ride through the Pinelands toward Oak Ambler, the peaceful surroundings starkly contrast the tension simmering beneath the surface. Poppy, clad in armor and prepared for battle, reflects on the surreal feeling of entering actual war. This isn’t just another skirmish or confrontation; it’s a full-scale war, and the weight of that reality begins to settle in. While it appears to be only the three of them, the wolven have spread out through the forest, quietly scouting for any hidden enemies. Poppy hopes to negotiate with the people of Oak Ambler, giving them a chance to leave before the battle begins, rather than forcing an immediate confrontation by arriving with an army.

Encounter with Mortals:

Along the road, Poppy’s group encounters a group of mortals—families with children, carrying their possessions and trying to leave before the battle starts. Their fear and uncertainty weigh heavily on Poppy, and she opens her senses to their emotions, feeling their dread and concern for their loved ones left behind.

Heartbreaking Requests:

One man, Ramon, approaches Poppy with a desperate plea for his son, Abel, who was taken during a recent Rite. He gives Poppy a small teddy bear, asking her to deliver it to Abel in the hopes that the boy will know his parents haven’t abandoned him. The emotional weight of this request, along with the many others that follow—parents shouting the names of their children taken in the Rites—brings Poppy to the brink of tears. The scene underscores the human cost of the Ascended’s rule and the deep wounds inflicted on families across Solis.

Poppy’s Promise:

Though she knows she can’t save everyone, Poppy promises to find the children. Her determination is evident, but Kieran reminds her that they can only save as many as possible, not everyone.

Approaching the Rise:

As they approach Oak Ambler, Poppy notices the eerie silence of the surrounding farms and cottages. Many have been abandoned or boarded up, likely due to Craven attacks, adding to the sense of desolation and loss. The Rise, partially destroyed during Poppy’s previous attack, comes into view. Though some repairs have been made, the damage still stands as a reminder of Poppy’s power and the conflict to come. Guilt tugs at her, but she pushes it aside, knowing that now is not the time for remorse.

Negotiating with the Guards:

As they near the gates, the guards quickly take notice and raise their weapons. Poppy asks to speak with the commander of the Rise, despite the growing tension. Emil and Kieran remain on edge, ready to act if necessary, but Poppy insists on trying to negotiate first. The guards, skeptical of Poppy’s identity as Queen, mock her and the Atlantian soldiers. Kieran humorously notes that perhaps Poppy should have worn her crown, though she dismisses the idea. The situation escalates when a guard fires an arrow at Kieran, prompting Poppy to warn them not to do it again.

Commander Forsyth’s Arrival:

Commander Forsyth arrives, accusing Poppy of being the Harbinger, the Bringer of Death and Destruction, and blaming her for the chaos in Oak Ambler. He refuses to open the gates or allow the people to leave, convinced that Poppy’s presence will bring more death and destruction.

Prophecy and Resistance:

The mention of the prophecy weighs heavily on the conversation, as Forsyth believes that Poppy’s arrival is the fulfillment of the Harbinger prophecy. His resolve is unshakable, and it becomes clear to Poppy that there will be no reasoning with him.

The Moment of Decision-No Choice Left:

Despite Poppy’s attempts to offer peace and allow people to choose whether to stay or leave, Commander Forsyth refuses to listen. His belief in the strength of the Rise and the prophecy blinds him to any possibility of negotiation. Poppy, sensing the inevitability of what must come next, gives the order to abandon the Rise and allow the people to make their own choices.

The Tipping Point:

With Forsyth’s refusal, Poppy feels the weight of the decision to move forward with force. Her connection to the eather flares, and the rumble of power in the distance signals that the time for negotiation has passed. The chapter ends with the tension about to explode into action.

Chapter 13 builds tension as Poppy’s journey to Oak Ambler brings her face-to-face with the realities of war. The emotional weight of the mortals’ pleas, the hostility of the guards, and the unyielding stance of Commander Forsyth set the stage for the battle to come. Poppy’s attempts at negotiation fall on deaf ears, and the chapter ends with the sense that the tipping point has been reached. War is no longer a distant threat—it is here, and Poppy must now navigate the fine line between mercy and destruction.

Chapter 14 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Arrival at Oak Ambler and Confrontation at the Rise:
Outside the Rise of Oak Ambler, a walled city protected by guards. Poppy, Kieran, Emil, and a small contingent of their forces arrive at the Rise. They see a shadow pass over the pines, followed by the appearance of Nithe, one of the draken (dragon-like creatures), which sends the guards into a panicked retreat. Nithe unleashes fire upon the guards and Commander Forsyth, leaving nothing behind. The draken continue to lay waste to the defenses, scorching the walls and gates, while Poppy watches the carnage without flinching. She is resolute in the necessity of the destruction to achieve their goal. After the gates are destroyed, horns sound from within the city, signaling the beginning of the battle. The draken land on the Rise and take control of the skies.

Evacuation of Mortals from Oak Ambler:
At the destroyed gates of Oak Ambler, overlooking the city beyond. Thousands of mortals—men, women, children, and elderly—begin to emerge from the city, carrying their belongings and loved ones. They are fearful but also in awe of the draken. Poppy reassures the fleeing mortals, telling them to head toward Massene, where they will be safe. Among the crowd is a young boy, filled with wonder as he points out the draken to his mother. The sight of so many mortals fleeing brings Poppy to the verge of tears, knowing that they are now safe.

March into Oak Ambler:
The city streets of Oak Ambler, leading to Castle Redrock and the Temple of Theon. Once the mortals clear the gates, Poppy and her forces—including the wolven and draken—advance into the city. The twisting streets are crowded with ramshackle homes and businesses. Some people stand ready to defend their homes with makeshift weapons. Poppy feels the weight of the battle, her heart pounding as they head toward Castle Redrock, the stronghold of the Ravarel family, who command Oak Ambler. The Atlantian armies and wolven accompany them, the draken flying overhead. The soldiers ride with shields raised as they prepare to confront the entrenched Solis soldiers protecting the Ascended and the wealthier parts of the city.

Battle at the Inner Rise and the Path to Castle Redrock:
Location - A stone bridge leading to the inner Rise, and the courtyard of Castle Redrock. The first major conflict occurs at a stone bridge near the inner Rise, where Solis soldiers have set up defensive positions with blood-red shields and swords. The soldiers are prepared to block Poppy’s forces from advancing toward Castle Redrock. Wolven, Atlantian soldiers, and draken charge across the creek, engaging with the Solis soldiers. Nithe and the other draken burn through the first and second lines of defense, leaving ash and smoke in their wake. Despite the carnage, the Solis forces regroup and continue to attack with volleys of arrows. Kieran saves Poppy from a rain of arrows by using his shield, and she thanks him, while they continue their advance. The draken wreak havoc, destroying large portions of the inner Rise, which allows Poppy’s forces to breach the defenses and reach Castle Redrock.

Negotiation and the Display of Power:
Location-The courtyard of Castle Redrock. Upon reaching the courtyard of Castle Redrock, Poppy and Kieran attempt to negotiate with the remaining Solis soldiers. Poppy promises that no harm will come to them if they surrender and abandon their defense of the castle. The soldiers hesitate, but many lower their shields and spears, showing that they are considering surrender. Poppy makes one final move to sway them by revealing her Primal powers, summoning a silvery-white aura and showing them that she is not the Harbinger of Death but someone with the blood of the gods. This display of power shocks the soldiers, and they surrender, dropping their weapons and shields. Poppy feels an immense wave of relief, knowing that more bloodshed has been prevented.

Descent into the Underground Chambers of Castle Redrock:
Location - The underground chambers beneath Castle Redrock. Poppy, Kieran, Emil, and some wolven, accompanied by a Rise Guard named Tasos, descend into the underground chambers of Castle Redrock, searching for the Ravarel family and the Ascended. As they travel through the narrow stairwell, Tasos informs them that ten guards should have been stationed there, blocking their entry. However, they discover the guards brutally murdered, their bodies strewn across the hallway in pools of blood. Kieran examines the bodies and finds that the wounds are not typical of a vampry attack. Instead, the guards have been bitten and clawed, and Poppy recognizes the familiar jagged bite marks—Craven wounds. As they approach the corridor where the hallway splits, they notice wispy tendrils of mist creeping out from the corridor. The presence of the mist confirms that Craven are near, setting the stage for a dangerous encounter.

This chapter is pivotal, blending the chaos of battle with Poppy’s continued development as a powerful leader, determined to protect as many lives as possible while taking on the immense challenges ahead.

Chapter 15 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Craven Attack in the Mist:
Location-Underground chambers beneath Castle Redrock. Poppy, Kieran, Emil, and their group encounter a thick mist filling the hall, within which Craven lurk. Arden, a wolven, rushes into the mist despite Poppy’s warning, and the group engages the Craven in a fierce battle. The Craven appear fresh, with their clothes intact and their bodies unrotted. Poppy, Emil, Kieran, and Delano fight off the Craven, but Arden is overwhelmed and seriously wounded. Poppy desperately tries to heal Arden using the Primal eather, but it fails, and Arden dies. His wolven form returns to his mortal body, and the group mourns his loss. Poppy is devastated, but Kieran encourages her to stop trying, as Arden is beyond saving.

Discovery of Turned Servants:
Emil, Kieran, and Poppy realize that the Craven they fought were once the servants of the Ascended, who had been recently turned. Tasos, a Rise Guard accompanying them, recognizes some of the Craven as servants who had been alive the previous day. Poppy's fury grows as she processes that the Ascended turned their own servants into Craven and left them to ambush anyone entering the underground chambers. Her anger fuels her resolve to find and punish the Ascended responsible.

Message Left by the Ascended:
Location-Another chamber beneath Castle Redrock. Valyn informs Poppy that the Ascended have left a message for her in another chamber. Despite warnings, Poppy insists on seeing it. In the chamber, Poppy is horrified to find the bodies of young women, veiled and chained from the ceiling, with bite marks and other injuries. A message written in blood on the wall reads: "All you will liberate is death." Poppy is overwhelmed by the grotesque sight and the cruelty of the Ascended, who left the women to become Craven. She leaves the room in shock, knowing the women will soon turn into Craven.

Exploring the Temple of Theon:
Location-Temple of Theon. After leaving Castle Redrock, Poppy, Kieran, and Valyn head to the nearby Temple of Theon. Inside, they discover tunnels under the Temple that may connect to the ones beneath Redrock, possibly used by the Ascended to escape. The group encounters six Priests and Priestesses in the Temple’s sanctum, who address Poppy as the Queen of Flesh and Fire and claim they have been waiting for her to fulfill her purpose. The head Priest, Framont, refers to an ancient prophecy about Poppy's role in remaking the realms. Poppy interrogates Framont, learning that the Priests and Priestesses serve the "True King," which they believe to be Malec, an ancient god entombed by Eloana, the Atlantian Queen.

The Prophecy and Malec:
Location- Temple of Theon. Framont's reference to the prophecy unsettles Poppy, as it mirrors what she has heard from others about her destiny to remake the realms. She and Valyn discuss the possibility that the Blood Queen (Isbeth) may have found Malec’s tomb and could be using him for her plans. Poppy is troubled by the idea that Malec could be the great conspirator referenced in the prophecy, especially if the Blood Queen has already freed him. She realizes they need to confirm Malec’s whereabouts and whether the safeguards placed by Eloana are still intact.

Ascended Hidden Among the Priests:
Location- Temple of Theon. Naill arrives and reveals that two Ascended were hidden among the Priests in the Temple. Framont admits that the Ascended have always served the True King and hints at their role in the larger plan. Vonetta arrives, dragging one of the Ascended who had tried to attack her. Despite the dark revelations, the group presses on, determined to find the children taken in the Rite, whom they believe are still hidden somewhere in the Temple.
This chapter adds layers to the ongoing battle against the Ascended, deepens the mystery of Poppy's destiny, and heightens the tension with the introduction of Malec as a possible key figure in the coming conflict.

Chapter 16 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Entering the Underground Tunnels beneath the Temple of Theon:

The group, led by a Priestess, descends into a labyrinth of tunnels beneath the Temple. The tunnels are cold and eerily silent, resembling a hive with many branching corridors. The deeper they go, the colder it becomes, making it difficult to believe that any mortal could survive for long in these conditions.

Discovering the Tomb of the Children:

Location- A deep underground cavern beneath the Temple. The group arrives at a vast cavern filled with bones and the remains of children and adults, some fresh, some long-decayed. The Priestess leads them to the grim sight, explaining that these children "served a great purpose." The bones scattered throughout the cavern include many that are too small, indicating they belong to children, some of whom were taken during the recent Rites. The cavern is filled with reddish-pink rock formations, stalactites, and a well in the center, which seems bottomless. The walls and floors are stained with dried blood, and the remains of children and adults, some in ceremonial clothing from the Rite, are scattered throughout. The group is horrified by the discovery, and Kieran identifies 71 fresh bodies, most likely those taken in the recent Rites. Hundreds of older remains are also found, many of which had been tossed into the well.

Poppy's Anger and the Execution of the Priests and Priestesses:

Location- Back in the Temple of Theon. Overwhelmed by rage and grief, Poppy orders the Priests and Priestesses to be put on their knees, facing the bodies of the children. She commands them to look at the children they helped kill and tells them that the children’s bodies will be the last thing they see before they die. Despite the horrors, the Priests and Priestesses are at peace with their actions, and Framont, the head Priest, even smiles. Poppy cannot tolerate this and personally executes Framont by slashing his throat with her bloodstone dagger.

Burning the Temple:

Location- Outside the Temple of Theon. After the discovery of the bodies and the execution of the Priests and Priestesses, Poppy orders the Temple of Theon to be burned to the ground. Reaver, a draken, unleashes his fiery breath upon the Temple, destroying it as a form of retribution for the horrors committed within.

Poppy Healing the Wounded Soldiers:

Location- Castle Redrock. By nightfall, the receiving hall of Castle Redrock has been transformed into an infirmary. Poppy heals the wounded soldiers and wolven, using her Primal abilities. Though she helps many, she is haunted by those she couldn’t save, including Arden and other fallen wolven. She treats a wolven named Sage, healing her arrow wound. As they talk, Poppy is emotionally and physically exhausted from the day’s events but continues to help those she can.

Reaver’s Presence and Poppy’s Doubts:

Location- Castle Redrock kitchens. After healing the wounded, Poppy finds herself in the kitchens with Reaver, the draken, who is still adjusting to his mortal form. The two share a meal and talk about the events of the day, including the deaths of the children and soldiers. Poppy struggles with the weight of responsibility and the horrors she witnessed. Reaver provides some perspective, explaining that death is a part of war but acknowledging how hard it is to accept. He also discusses the nature of life and death, mentioning that Nyktos, the Primal of Life, would be conflicted about Poppy’s ability to restore life.

Reaver’s Insight on the Primal Consort:

Location- Castle Redrock kitchens. Reaver shares some insight into the Primal Consort, Nyktos's partner, who has a rebellious nature. He compares Poppy’s tendency to act despite limitations to the Consort’s, hinting that the Consort also struggles with boundaries and limitations.

This chapter deepens the emotional weight of the story as Poppy is confronted with the brutal consequences of war and the atrocities committed by the Ascended. It also highlights Poppy's growth as a leader and her internal struggle with the responsibilities and powers she now possesses.

Chapter 17 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Reaver's Insight on the Primal Consort:

Location-Castle Redrock, in the kitchens. Reaver shares more insight into the Primal Consort, explaining that her sons were taken from her and that although neither may be dead, they are not fully alive. The Consort's fury makes her a potential danger, capable of causing irreversible harm. This echoes Poppy's own fears, as she relates to the Consort’s anger and potential for destruction due to her losses.

Preparations to Leave for the Capital:

Location- Castle Redrock.Poppy plans to address the people and the families of the slain tomorrow before leaving for the capital the day after. She is burdened by the difficult tasks ahead, especially the emotional toll of speaking to the families who lost loved ones.

Tension Between Reaver and Kieran:

Location-Castle Redrock, in the kitchens. A humorous exchange between Reaver and Kieran lightens the mood. Reaver, dressed in nothing but a sheet, teases Kieran about his physique, sparking playful banter. Their back-and-forth showcases their dynamic and provides a brief respite from the heaviness of the chapter.

Poppy's Concern for Perry:

Location- Castle Redrock, second floor. Kieran informs Poppy that Perry, an Atlantian soldier, has been injured by an arrow. Despite Kieran’s suggestion that Perry will heal on his own, Poppy insists on helping, showing her care for her friends and her desire to alleviate their pain. She uses her healing abilities on Perry, easing his injury and restoring his health.

The Emotional Weight of the Past Events:

Location-Castle Redrock. Poppy struggles to sleep, haunted by the horrors she witnessed: the Craven attacking, Arden's death, and the bodies of the children found under the Temple. Her mind races with questions about the girls found in the Temple and whether their souls were trapped. Poppy also reflects on her connection to Isbeth, her bloodline, and the potential for her to become like her mother—a monster consumed by vengeance.

Poppy's Fears of Becoming a Monster:

Location- Castle Redrock, Poppy's room. Poppy grapples with the terrifying possibility that she could become like Isbeth if she loses Casteel or succumbs to her anger. She fears the bloodline she shares with Isbeth and wonders if the pain of losing a loved one could drive her to the same kind of monstrous actions. This internal conflict underscores Poppy's fear of losing herself to wrath and destruction.

Poppy’s Request to Kieran:

Location- Castle Redrock, Poppy's room. In a deeply emotional moment, Poppy asks Kieran to make a promise: if she ever loses herself to her Primal powers and becomes a danger to the world, she wants Kieran to stop her—by any means necessary. She asks him to entomb her using bone chains, similar to how Malec was restrained, to prevent her from unleashing devastation. Kieran is reluctant, but after a heartfelt discussion, he agrees to do it if it ever becomes necessary.

This chapter dives deep into Poppy’s fears of becoming a destructive force and her internal struggle with the weight of her responsibilities and powers. The bond between Poppy and Kieran is further solidified through Poppy’s difficult request, and moments of levity between Kieran and Reaver provide a balance to the heavier themes of the chapter.

Chapter 18 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Grief and Responsibility Weigh on Poppy:

Poppy reflects on the heartbreaking grief of the parents who found their children among the dead. She feels the weight of their despair, knowing that her apologies and promises mean little in the face of such loss. The emotional toll of her responsibilities as Queen becomes more evident as she struggles to reconcile her duty with the pain of those around her.

The Freedom to Leave Oak Ambler:
Location-Castle Redrock, a small chamber at the top of the tower. Discussions arise about whether the citizens of Oak Ambler should be allowed to leave the city. Poppy argues for granting them the freedom to make that choice, even during wartime, emphasizing that Solis should offer its people the same basic freedoms as Atlantia. She hopes this will help build trust with the people of Solis, even though some, like Lord Sven, are concerned about the risks.

Poppy's Determination to Address the People:
Location- Castle Redrock, top of the tower and balcony. Despite her nerves and inexperience, Poppy insists on addressing the people herself. Valyn and Kieran offer to speak on her behalf, but she feels it's her responsibility as Queen to face the people and tell them the truth—that they are not conquerors and are there to end the Blood Crown and the Rite. Valyn acknowledges that his son is lucky to have found her, which strengthens her resolve.

Poppy’s Address to the People of Oak Ambler:
Location- Castle Redrock balcony, facing the courtyard. Poppy steps out onto the balcony to address the crowd gathered in the courtyard and beyond. In a trembling but strong voice, she declares that Atlantia is not there to conquer or take but to end the tyranny of the Blood Crown and the Rite. This is a pivotal moment for her, as she begins to embrace her role as a leader who must speak directly to the people.

The Plan to Enter Carsodonia:
Location-Castle Redrock, sitting area. After addressing the people, Poppy, Kieran, and Valyn discuss their plans to enter Carsodonia and rescue Casteel. Valyn raises concerns about the size of the city and the difficulty of finding Casteel, as it’s a large city filled with Ascended and Royal Knights. Kieran mentions capturing a high-ranking Ascended or a Handmaiden to gather information, but they acknowledge the risks involved.

The Search for a Solution Using Primal Magic:
Poppy remembers that Sven, Perry’s father, has knowledge of Primal magic. She seeks him out to inquire about a spell that could help them locate Casteel. Sven recalls an old Atlantian spell that might work, requiring blood from Casteel’s family and a cherished item of his. Poppy reveals that she has Casteel’s wooden horse, a toy made by his brother Malik, which could be used in the spell. This gives them hope that they might be able to narrow down Casteel’s location in the city.

The Arrival of Unexpected Visitors—Tawny and Gianna:
Location- Castle Redrock courtyard.As Poppy, Kieran, and Valyn exit the castle, they are surprised to see two visitors arriving from Atlantia: Gianna Davenwell and Tawny. The appearance of Tawny, Poppy’s former lady-in-waiting and close friend, is a shock to Poppy, leaving her speechless. Tawny’s return hints at new developments, as she had been left behind in Atlantia, and her presence now raises questions about what has transpired since.
This chapter explores Poppy’s leadership, the search for Casteel, and the introduction of new possibilities through Primal magic. The emotional weight of grief and responsibility is balanced by the glimmer of hope provided by the discovery of a potential spell and the unexpected arrival of Tawny, hinting at new developments to come.

Chapter 19 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy's Emotional Reunion with Tawny:
Location- Between the tents outside Castle Redrock. Poppy is shocked and overjoyed by the sudden appearance of her best friend, Tawny. Tawny had been in stasis for a long time, and her return is filled with emotion as Poppy rushes to embrace her. However, Kieran and Delano show caution, which surprises Poppy, as does the coldness of Tawny’s body and her paler appearance, including white hair and eyes. Despite her outward changes, Tawny assures Poppy that she feels fine and better now that she is with her.

Tawny's Strange Changes and Her Message About Vikter:
Location-A receiving chamber in Castle Redrock. Tawny and Poppy retreat to a private chamber to talk, with Kieran, Delano, and Gianna nearby. Kieran expresses his unease, saying that Tawny doesn’t “feel right,” though Poppy is convinced that this is still her friend, even if she has changed. Tawny reveals that after being fatally stabbed in Oak Ambler, she saw Vikter in what seemed to be a dream. She believes Vikter or the Fates intervened to save her life, which brings new questions about the role of the Arae and the Fates. Vikter apparently conveyed important information about Poppy’s role and the Primal powers.

Vikter’s Role as a Viktor:
Tawny explains that Vikter was a viktor—a special kind of being whose purpose is to guard someone destined for a significant fate. Viktors are reborn through cycles, with their souls returning to Mount Lotho in Iliseeum. Some viktors, like Vikter, figure out their purpose in their current life and fulfill their destiny to protect a key individual, in this case, Poppy. This revelation explains Vikter’s role in Poppy’s life, including his training and his deep sense of duty to her.

Tawny Shares the Full Prophecy:
Tawny recounts the full prophecy concerning Poppy, revealing it to be longer and more detailed than what Poppy previously knew. The prophecy speaks of two daughters, one with blood full of fire (the first) and another with blood full of ash and ice (the second, likely Poppy). It also references the end of the realms, a false one, and the once-promised King. This suggests deeper layers to Poppy’s destiny and the potential role of Malik in the unfolding events.

Tawny’s Condition:
Tawny suggests that while she was saved, she may be in some form of limbo between life and death. She points out her cold skin, white eyes, and lack of emotion as signs that something is not quite right with her. Though she can breathe, eat, and think, she suspects she is not fully alive in the traditional sense, comparing herself to the Ascended without fully understanding her condition. Tawny confesses that she believes she is neither fully alive nor dead, stating that whatever the Arae or Vikter did to save her from death left her in an in-between state. Poppy reassures her that she is alive in all the ways that matter, despite Tawny’s worries that her condition resembles that of the Ascended. "I think I’m dead but…not."This quote encapsulates Tawny’s belief that she is trapped between life and death, adding a supernatural mystery to her character.

Vikter’s Final Message:
Before the conversation concludes, Tawny reveals that Vikter gave her a personal message meant only for Poppy. Although Kieran is hesitant about Poppy hearing something privately, Poppy insists, trusting Vikter’s intentions. This secret message adds to the growing tension around the mysteries of Poppy’s future and the forces at play.
The departure is bittersweet, as she feels the weight of both her mission and the connections she’s leaving behind, even temporarily.

Poppy’s Emotional Farewells:
Location-Castle Redrock courtyard and valley. As Poppy bids farewell to Tawny and Vonetta, she reflects on the bond she shares with Tawny, promising to be careful and to reunite with her soon. She also feels conflicted, knowing that a part of her will always remain in Oak Ambler, particularly in the ruins of the Temple of Theon, where so much tragedy unfolded.

This chapter deepens the mysteries surrounding Poppy’s destiny, introducing new revelations about the prophecy and the Fates' involvement. At the same time, it emphasizes Poppy’s relationships with those around her, particularly Tawny, as they face a future filled with uncertainty.

Chapter 20 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Casteel’s Dream of Poppy:
Location- The dream world, specifically the cavern that Poppy calls "their paradise."
Casteel awakens in a dream, in the familiar and comforting surroundings of the cavern, but without Poppy by his side. This immediately fills him with dread, as he feels undeserving of such a paradise after all the bloodshed and loss in his past. When Poppy finally appears, the intensity of their connection is overwhelming. Casteel reflects on how Poppy has claimed him entirely, body and soul, and despite his dark past, her love makes him feel worthy. They share a passionate embrace, and the dream briefly becomes a space of comfort and intimacy.

Revelations in the Dream:
In the midst of their reunion, Casteel reveals to Poppy that Isbeth is a demis—a false god. He urges her to speak to Kieran or Reaver, who may know more about how to defeat Isbeth. This is important information that Poppy can use in the real world. Their connection is interrupted as the dream begins to fade, signaling that one of them is waking up.

Poppy’s Waking World:
Location- A campsite near the Blood Forest.
Poppy wakes from the dream and immediately relays what she learned from Casteel to Kieran and Reaver. She tells them about the underground tunnel system where Casteel is being held and the fact that Isbeth is a demis. Reaver, after some grumbling, explains that a demis is a mortal Ascended by a god who is not a Chosen third-born, making them a false god. This revelation gives Poppy and her allies a potential advantage, as they now know that Isbeth can be killed like any other god, with shadowstone or by another god or Primal.

Craven Attack:
Location-Near the Blood Forest.
As Poppy and Kieran prepare for the next phase of their journey, they spot Craven approaching. Reaver, in his usual blunt fashion, shifts into his draken form and prepares to deal with the threat. His transformation into a draken and his subsequent defense against the Craven demonstrates the immense power they have on their side.

Casteel’s Torture by Isbeth:
Location-Casteel’s cell, underground in Carsodonia.
Casteel wakes up in his cell, drenched in water and tormented by Isbeth and her loyal Rev, Callum. Isbeth taunts him, referring to the torture she has inflicted and the fact that she has kept him weak. Despite his weakened state, Casteel still manages to stab her with a bone, just missing her heart. However, Isbeth heals quickly and mocks him further. She reveals that she doesn’t want to kill him yet because she still needs him alive.

Isbeth’s Insidious Plan:
Location: Casteel’s cell.
In a chilling revelation, Isbeth explains how love can weaken a Primal, turning it into a weapon that could end their existence. She hints at knowing more about the origins of Primal power than she initially let on, referencing her connection to Malec and the fact that Poppy is a Primal born into the mortal realm. This bombshell adds another layer of danger to Poppy's journey, as Isbeth may plan to exploit Poppy’s love for Casteel.

Casteel’s Desperation and Starvation:
Location- Casteel’s cell.
Isbeth forces Casteel to drink a small amount of blood, just enough to awaken his body’s hunger without fully satiating it. The agony of his body being starved and teased with blood sends him into a frenzy. Casteel is left barely holding onto his sanity as the hunger overwhelms him, signaling the dire state of his captivity.

This chapter highlights the deepening stakes in the battle against the Blood Queen, with new revelations about Isbeth's nature and her plans to exploit Poppy's power. Poppy's journey to save Casteel becomes even more urgent as Casteel's condition deteriorates, and the chapter underscores the strength of their bond, which remains unbreakable despite the distance and danger.

Chapter 21 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy's Restlessness:

Location- The campsite outside the Blood Forest.

Poppy is restless and unable to sleep. She is feeling the effects of her hunger and thirst, both physical and emotional, which signal the need for her to feed. As she watches the Blood Forest, she reflects on how close they are to reaching Casteel, noting they are only a few days away from Carsodonia. The proximity to the capital heightens her anticipation but also fills her with a sense of unease.

Poppy's Sense of Being Watched:

Location- The edge of the Blood Forest.

As Poppy sits alone, she is struck by an intense sensation of being watched, a cold, primal awareness pressing down on her. The forest becomes unnervingly still, as if the natural world has paused. This eerie moment passes, but the unease lingers. Reaver soon takes over watch, but Poppy remains restless, knowing her hunger is growing.

Poppy's Hunger and Decision to Feed:

Location- The campsite tent.

Poppy’s need to feed has become too strong to ignore, and she acknowledges that waiting any longer could weaken her, potentially leading to bloodlust. Kieran, who has been watching her pace restlessly, recognizes her discomfort. Poppy is conflicted about feeding from him due to the intimacy of the act, especially given her past experiences with Casteel. However, Kieran reassures her that there is no shame or awkwardness in feeding from him, as it is a natural need for her as an Atlantean god.

The Feeding:

Location- Inside the tent.

Poppy finally gives in and feeds from Kieran. As she drinks his blood, she is surprised by the different sensations it evokes compared to Casteel’s blood. Kieran’s blood tastes earthy and wild, and while the experience is powerful, it is not as intensely arousing as feeding from Casteel. During the feeding, Poppy inadvertently taps into Kieran’s memories, witnessing moments from his past, including a memory of him and Casteel as young men, laughing and fishing. She also experiences a more intimate memory from the beach at Saion’s Cove, where Kieran had watched both her and Casteel in a moment of passion.

Kieran's Amusement and Poppy's Embarrassment:

Location- The tent, post-feeding.

Kieran teases Poppy for being "nosy" and witnessing his memories, particularly the one from the beach. He admits that he purposely thought of that memory to shock her, but is amused that instead of being shocked, she seemed intrigued. Poppy, embarrassed, tries to downplay the situation, but Kieran is amused by her reaction. Despite the teasing, there is a sense of ease and trust between them, and Poppy feels safe with Kieran.

Poppy Heals Kieran:

Location- Inside the tent.

After feeding, Poppy heals the cut on Kieran’s arm using her abilities. The sensation of her healing power feels different to Kieran, but it is not unpleasant. This moment reinforces the bond between them, as Poppy reflects on the strangeness of her new life, where feeding and healing others have become part of her reality.

Poppy’s Sleep and Distance from Casteel:

Location: The tent.

Despite the light-hearted banter and the comfort of Kieran’s presence, Poppy is still troubled by her inability to reach Casteel in her dreams. She falls asleep next to Kieran, who shifts into his wolven form, but unlike previous nights, she does not find Casteel in the dream world. This deepens her concern for him, knowing that time is running out.

Chapter 21 explores the complexities of Poppy’s relationships with those around her, particularly Kieran, as well as her growing acceptance of her new reality as a god.

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Chapter 22 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Journey Through the Western Pass:

Location- Western Pass, near Three Rivers and Whitebridge.

Poppy, Kieran, and Reaver travel west and south toward their destination. The morning is tense, and they pass a group of Huntsmen without incident. The land they pass through is filled with farmlands where children are seen working instead of being in school. Reaver, unfamiliar with Solis's customs, questions why children are not educated, leading to a discussion on the differences between Solis and Atlantia.

Reaver's Insights on the Past:

Topic: History of the Consort and the Mortal Realm.

Reaver reveals that he had visited the mortal realm before, in a place called Lasania, which causes some confusion with the term "lasagna." He explains that the Consort, who was once a mortal princess, was born with an ember of the Primal of Life, making her "partly mortal." This revelation surprises both Poppy and Kieran, and Reaver’s cryptic explanation only adds to their confusion.

Encounter with Soldiers:

Location- On the Western Pass road.

The group encounters a large contingent of soldiers, around two to three dozen in number, and they quickly devise a plan to avoid suspicion. Kieran and Poppy cover themselves with mud for camouflage, but the lieutenant in charge becomes suspicious of Poppy’s unwillingness to meet his gaze. He snaps his fingers in front of her face, provoking her to look up, and he recognizes the glowing silver behind her eyes.

Fight with the Soldiers:

The lieutenant realizes who Poppy is, calling her the Harbinger, and Poppy reacts swiftly by killing him. Chaos ensues as Reaver and Kieran join the fray, dispatching the soldiers with brutal efficiency. Despite Reaver’s desire to shift into his draken form and burn everything, Poppy forbids it to avoid alerting others to their presence. As the battle intensifies, Poppy shuts down her emotions, fighting with cold precision.

Poppy's Use of the Primal Essence:

As the fight continues, Poppy taps into the Primal essence within her. She kills several Royal Guards by snapping their necks with her will and summons the essence to ripple through the earth, creating a blood tree in the midst of battle. However, Poppy is struck by a shadowstone arrow, causing intense pain, and the essence inside her reacts violently, pushing her toward becoming the Harbinger of Death.

The Arrival of the Handmaiden and Revenants:

The fight comes to a halt when the Handmaiden appears with ten cloaked Revenants. She taunts Poppy, warning her that if she continues her current path, the Blood Queen will kill Casteel in retaliation. The Handmaiden knows about Poppy’s plan to use the mines to enter Carsodonia and claims that she had predicted this move, highlighting the depth of the Blood Queen’s knowledge of Poppy's intentions.

The Handmaiden's Offer:

The Handmaiden offers Poppy and her group a way into Carsodonia as "honored guests" of the Blood Queen, but it’s clear this is no true invitation. Despite Kieran’s protests, Poppy considers the Handmaiden’s offer as a way to reach Casteel without risking his life. The Handmaiden assures them they won’t be prisoners, though Kieran and Reaver remain skeptical.

Poppy's Sudden Collapse:

Injury- Effects of the shadowstone arrow.

Just as the tension between Poppy and the Handmaiden reaches its peak, Poppy begins to feel the effects of the shadowstone arrow lodged in her shoulder. The poison takes hold, and despite Kieran’s attempts to help her, Poppy collapses, leaving her vulnerable.

Chapter 22 is a pivotal moment where Poppy’s control over her powers is tested, and the consequences of her actions are felt deeply. The arrival of the Handmaiden and her Revenants raises the stakes, forcing Poppy to make a difficult choice between continuing her mission and risking Casteel’s life. The chapter ends on a cliffhanger as Poppy succumbs to the effects of the shadowstone arrow, leaving her fate uncertain as she collapses in front of her enemies.

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Chapter 23 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy's Nightmare and Recollection of Her Past:

Poppy experiences a disturbing nightmare about her mother fighting off a dark figure while trying to protect her. In the dream, Poppy is attacked by creatures and eventually rescued by the "Dark One" who seems torn between harming her and sparing her. The dream highlights key traumatic memories from her childhood, with the Dark One declaring, “I see her staring back at me,” as if recognizing Poppy’s fate. The dream connects Poppy’s past to her present, suggesting that Poppy’s power has long been recognized as something dangerous, even as a child.

Poppy Awakens:

Location- Wayfair Castle, Carsodonia.

Poppy wakes up after being unconscious for two days due to the toxin on the shadowstone arrow. Kieran has been by her side the entire time, feeding her blood to help her heal. Poppy slowly realizes they have been brought to Carsodonia, specifically to Wayfair Castle, where she had lived as a child.

The details of the castle are vivid and familiar to Poppy, triggering memories of her past, but this time the grandeur and beauty of the castle seem hollow and false.

Captured but Not Imprisoned:

Poppy and Kieran are technically not prisoners, but they are heavily guarded. Reaver is also being kept in a chamber below but has not caused any trouble, knowing they are in the heart of enemy territory.

Revelations About Millicent:

Kieran reveals that the Handmaiden’s name is Millicent. Millicent seems to be manipulating their situation, subtly giving them advice and sharing information, but she remains an enigma. Poppy grows increasingly wary of her.

Toxin on the Arrow:

Millicent explains that the arrow was coated in a toxin that could kill an Atlantian or mortal. It was a precaution in case Poppy went on a "Harbinger of Doom" rampage.

Blood Queen’s Missive:

Millicent reveals that the Blood Queen has received word that Atlantian forces have taken New Haven and Whitebridge, and Three Rivers is likely to fall soon. This suggests that Atlantia is advancing in the war, though they are still far from Carsodonia.

Confrontation with Millicent:

Poppy asserts her authority when Millicent tries to make her wear a white Maiden gown for the meeting with the Blood Queen. Poppy refuses, symbolically rejecting the past control her mother had over her. She demands other clothes and prepares herself for the upcoming confrontation.

Poppy’s Growing Power and Confidence:

Poppy’s connection to her Primal essence grows stronger as she senses the emotions of the Handmaidens. She begins to realize that not all Handmaidens are the same as Millicent, and some seem to feel genuine peace, suggesting different layers to their servitude. As Poppy prepares to face the Blood Queen, she reminds herself of her power as a Queen and a god, pushing down her fear.

The Blood Queen’s Entrance:

Location- Great Hall of Wayfair Castle.

Poppy, Kieran, and Reaver are led to the Great Hall, where the Blood Queen makes a dramatic entrance in a gilded litter. Dressed in white, the Blood Queen basks in the adulation of her people. The grandeur and ceremony are unsettling, showcasing her manipulation of the masses.

The Revelation of Malik:

Malik, Casteel’s brother, is revealed to be standing beside the Blood Queen. His presence is shocking and painful for both Poppy and Kieran, who see his betrayal. The revelation deepens the complexity of the situation, as Malik’s alliance with the Blood Queen is not fully understood. Millicent refers to him as "Prince Malik," and her interaction with him suggests that they have some kind of history, adding to the intrigue.

Poppy's Internal Struggle:

Poppy fights against her instinct to attack the Blood Queen immediately, despite the overwhelming power surging through her veins. She channels her fury into self-control, knowing that an impulsive move could jeopardize her mission and Casteel’s safety. Poppy’s connection with Kieran also grows as she draws strength from his presence, sharing warmth and reassurance with him as they face the looming threat of Malik and the Blood Queen.

The Blood Queen’s Speech:

The Blood Queen addresses her people, speaking of their faith in her and their fear of a "godless kingdom" and the "Harbinger" (Poppy). Her words are filled with hypocrisy and manipulation, painting Poppy as the enemy, even as Poppy stands in the shadows, waiting for her moment.

Chapter 23 brings Poppy face-to-face with the forces that have shaped her past and the enemies she must overcome to secure her future. As she prepares for a direct confrontation with the Blood Queen, the stakes continue to rise, with Malik’s betrayal adding a new layer of complexity to the conflict. Poppy’s internal strength and resolve are tested as she navigates the treacherous political and emotional landscape of Carsodonia, knowing that her every move could determine the fate of those she loves.

Chapter 24 Recap - The War of Two Queens

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The Blood Queen's Speech:
The chapter begins with the Blood Queen addressing the gathered crowd, spreading lies about the war and demonizing Atlantia and Poppy as the Harbinger of Death and Destruction. She claims that the Rises in the north and east have been destroyed, and innocent people were raped, slaughtered, and cursed, blaming Poppy for the chaos.
The crowd reacts with fear and disbelief, believing her lies as they associate the fall of the cities with Poppy’s arrival, reinforcing the prophecy.
Poppy struggles to contain her anger and Primal essence, with her power physically cracking the marble railing. Millicent and Kieran urge her to calm down, knowing that any rash action could confirm the false narrative that Poppy is the Harbinger.

The Royal Blessing:

A frail young woman is brought to the Blood Queen for the Royal Blessing, a ceremony in which mortals believe the touch of a Royal has healing powers. Poppy recognizes this as another manipulation, suspecting that the chalice given to the woman contains Atlantian blood, which grants temporary reprieve from illness but reinforces the belief that the Ascended are chosen by the gods.
After drinking from the chalice, the woman’s health visibly improves, causing the crowd to fall to their knees in awe and reverence. The Blood Queen’s control over the people is cemented by this public display of "miraculous" healing.

The Reception:

After the Royal Blessing, Poppy, Kieran, and Reaver are brought to a reception with wealthy mortals and Ascended. The Ascended openly stare at Poppy, while the mortals are more subtle, intrigued by her presence and her visible scars.
Poppy notes the presence of Revenants among the Royal Guards, blending in more easily than when they wear their distinctive red robes. Tension builds as they wait for the Blood Queen to summon them.

Confrontation with the Blood Queen:

The Blood Queen enters the reception, accompanied by Handmaidens and Malik. Poppy’s anger simmers as the Blood Queen continues to act as if she is in control, even commenting on Poppy’s choice of attire, suggesting it is not befitting of a Queen.The Blood Queen and Poppy exchange tense words, with Poppy asserting her independence and power. Malik remains silent, but Poppy senses the thick emotional shields he has in place, which she later shatters, exposing his deep-seated fear, shame, and sorrow.

Poppy Shatters Malik’s Shields:

When Malik makes a dismissive comment, Poppy taps into her Primal essence, shattering his mental shields and overwhelming him with his own emotions. Malik is left visibly shaken, bleeding from the nose, as the guards help him away. This moment demonstrates the growing extent of Poppy’s powers and her ability to break through even the strongest defenses.

The Blood Queen’s Offer:

The Blood Queen makes a chilling offer: Poppy must choose to see either Casteel or her father, not both. The decision is a manipulation, forcing Poppy into an impossible choice. Despite the guilt and shame that bubble up, Poppy chooses Casteel, knowing that he is her immediate priority. The Blood Queen agrees to let Poppy see Casteel, but reminds her that they will need to have a discussion afterward. This reinforces the idea that the Blood Queen still sees herself as holding the upper hand.

Meeting Callum:

Poppy is introduced to Callum, a golden Revenant who is unsettlingly friendly and flirtatious. His appearance, with milky blue eyes and porcelain-like features, adds to the eerie and predatory nature of the Revenants.
Callum leads Poppy to where Casteel is being held, but she is forced to go alone, leaving Kieran and Reaver behind. Kieran’s parting words suggest that he will be in his wolven form, listening for her return, maintaining their connection.

The Underground Journey:

Poppy is blindfolded and led through a series of winding tunnels deep beneath Wayfair Castle, losing all sense of direction. The damp and musty atmosphere heightens her anxiety as she anticipates seeing Casteel for the first time since his capture.
The description of the underground tunnels suggests they are part of a larger, hidden network, possibly connecting to the Temples in the Garden District, where Casteel may have been kept.

Reaching Casteel’s Cell:

When Poppy’s blindfold is removed, Callum informs her that Casteel is being held in a nearby cell. The ominous atmosphere and the Blood Queen’s warning about Casteel’s behavior set a grim tone for what Poppy is about to encounter.
As Poppy approaches the cell, she hears a low, rough snarl, and when she finally sees Casteel, her heart breaks at the sight.

Chapter 24 is a tense and emotionally charged chapter that explores themes of manipulation, power, family, and sacrifice. The Blood Queen’s continued control over the people of Solis, reinforced by the Royal Blessing and her lies about the war, presents a significant challenge for Poppy. At the same time, Poppy’s growing power and her ability to shatter Malik’s shields show that she is not powerless, even as she navigates the difficult choice between saving Casteel and her father.

As the chapter ends with Poppy confronting the reality of Casteel’s imprisonment, the emotional weight of the story intensifies, setting the stage for a potential reckoning between Poppy and the Blood Queen.

Chapter 25 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Casteel in Chains:
The chapter opens with Poppy entering the cell where Casteel is being held. Casteel is in terrible condition, chained with shadowstone shackles around his ankles, wrists, and even his throat, designed to prevent someone like Poppy from freeing him. His body is covered in thin, red lines, and he is feverish, weak, and visibly emaciated. Casteel’s physical state is so broken that he has fallen into bloodlust, and he does not recognize Poppy—he only sees her as food.

Poppy's Healing Attempt:
Poppy’s emotions swell as she witnesses Casteel's condition. Despite his bloodlust, she reaches out to him, channeling her gift to heal his wounds. She recalls their happiest moments, using the memories to fuel her gift. Although she manages to heal some of his injuries, Casteel’s mental state remains unstable, and he continues to struggle against the chains.
Casteel briefly regains some sense of himself and recognizes Poppy, calling her name. This gives Poppy hope that Casteel is still in there and hasn’t completely lost himself to the bloodlust.

Casteel’s POV – Seeing Poppy Again:
In a rare switch to Casteel’s perspective, we see the deep emotional impact Poppy’s presence has on him. He describes her as his Queen, his soul, and his savior, and he clings to her, recognizing that she is real and not a hallucination.
Casteel is overwhelmed by the comfort and love Poppy brings him, and he feels grounded and pulled back from the edge of nothingness by her touch and her presence.

Poppy and Casteel’s Reunion:
Poppy and Casteel embrace, with Poppy cradling him and kissing him on the cheek, forehead, and nose. Casteel is physically broken, but emotionally and mentally, Poppy’s presence is enough to help him hold on.
Despite the terrible conditions and the chains that bind him, Casteel feels safe with Poppy and is able to momentarily forget his suffering. The love between them is palpable, and their reunion is a powerful moment of tenderness in the midst of Casteel’s imprisonment.

The Blood Queen’s Arrival:
As Poppy and Casteel share this intimate moment, the Blood Queen arrives with her usual cruel and manipulative demeanor. She taunts them, suggesting that none of them—including Poppy—can kill the Revenants.
The Blood Queen casually reveals that she has been withholding adequate food, water, and blood from Casteel, stating that he has been given just enough to survive. Her words are callous, and she dismisses their pleas for better treatment of Casteel, seeing no value in extending any compassion.

Casteel’s Refusal to Feed:
Despite his dire condition, Casteel refuses to feed from Poppy, not wanting to weaken her by taking her blood. Poppy insists, knowing that he needs blood to heal, but Casteel remains firm in his decision, even kissing her wrist but not biting her.
This act demonstrates Casteel’s love for Poppy and his desire to protect her, even though it comes at great cost to his own health.

Tension with the Blood Queen:
Poppy stands her ground against the Blood Queen, refusing to leave Casteel’s side and demanding food and water for him. She is fiercely protective of him, but the Blood Queen reminds her that they had agreed to talk, and Poppy would need to fulfill that part of the deal.
The Blood Queen’s manipulation continues as she tries to assert control over the situation, and Poppy, in turn, does not give in to her demands lightly.

Poppy's Power Surges:
As Poppy’s anger mounts, her Primal essence begins to surface, causing the air to hum with power. Her skin starts to glow faintly, and shadows appear beneath her flesh, revealing the immense power she holds within her. This is a physical manifestation of her growing strength and control over her abilities.
The Blood Queen recognizes Poppy’s power and warns her to pull it back before it becomes too dangerous. Poppy, however, is on the brink of losing control, driven by the rage she feels at seeing Casteel’s condition and the injustice of the situation.

Casteel Calms Poppy:
Sensing that Poppy is nearing the edge of her control, Casteel gently calms her down, telling her to leave the cell for her own sake. He reassures her that she will never leave him, emotionally grounding her in the moment despite the dire circumstances. Their bond is highlighted as Casteel, even in his weakened state, is able to offer her comfort and guidance.

Poppy’s Departure:
Despite her desire to stay with Casteel, Poppy is forced to leave him behind. The parting is painful, but Casteel’s words, “Always and forever,” give her the strength to walk away, trusting that they will be together again.
As Poppy is escorted back through the tunnels, her anger and frustration build. She has seen the suffering Casteel has endured, and it fuels her determination to fight back against the Blood Queen.

Confrontation with Callum:
When Callum, the golden Revenant, makes a snide comment about Casteel’s treatment, Poppy snaps. In a fit of rage, she stabs Callum in the chest, driving the blade into his heart. The scene is violent and shocking, showcasing Poppy’s capacity for brutality when pushed too far.
Callum’s reaction is one of surprise, but as a Revenant, he will survive the wound. Poppy’s action demonstrates that she will not tolerate any more disrespect or cruelty toward Casteel.

Poppy’s Questions:
Poppy questions the Blood Queen about the deception surrounding the Ascended and why she hides her true nature from the people. The Blood Queen explains that most people, including the Ascended, prefer to remain oblivious to uncomfortable truths, reinforcing the theme of manipulation and control.
Poppy’s determination to reveal the truth about the Ascended and the Blood Crown’s lies is strengthened, but the Blood Queen remains confident in her ability to maintain control over the people of Solis.

The Blood Queen’s Manipulation:
The Blood Queen admits that Casteel could have been treated better if he had shown more respect and compliance, revealing that his suffering was a direct consequence of his defiance. Her manipulation is clear, as she uses Casteel’s mistreatment to force Poppy into difficult decisions and to weaken her resolve.

The Harbinger Prophecy:
In a chilling moment, the Blood Queen reaffirms her belief that Poppy is the Harbinger, the one destined to bring death and destruction. Despite Poppy’s denial, the Blood Queen is convinced that Poppy’s power will ultimately fulfill the prophecy, further unsettling Poppy’s already fragile sense of identity.

Memory Flashback – The Cage:
At the end of the chapter, Poppy experiences a memory from her childhood, recalling a time when she sneaked into a chamber beneath Wayfair Castle. She remembers seeing a large, gray cave cat caged behind white bars, feeling a sense of helplessness that mirrored her own experiences.
The memory is interrupted by the Blood Queen’s comment about Poppy’s eyes, suggesting that her eyes resemble those of her father, adding to the mystery of Poppy’s origins and her connection to the Primal bloodline.

Chapter 25 is a powerful and emotional chapter that delves deep into the suffering of Casteel, the strength of Poppy’s love, and the growing tension between Poppy and the Blood Queen. The chapter explores themes of manipulation, love, sacrifice, and the burden of destiny, setting the stage for even greater confrontations to come.

Chapter 26 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy and Queen Isbeth’s Conversation

Poppy’s Emotional Reaction:

Isbeth begins by noting the similarities between Poppy and her father, Ires, specifically how the eather would sometimes swirl in his eyes, as it does in Poppy’s. This revelation hits Poppy hard, stirring a deep emotional reaction as she instinctively touches the ring around her neck, feeling a profound connection to this new knowledge about her father.

The Story of Ires’ Capture:

Isbeth reveals how Ires came to her after the war, seeking his brother, Malec. He wasn’t immediately captured, but rather stayed willingly at first, driven by curiosity about mortals and the Ascended. However, Isbeth refused to let him leave once he decided to return to Iliseeum, leading to his ultimate imprisonment. She also discloses that a draken accompanied Ires, a creature she has since "dealt with" (likely meaning killed).

Ires and Isbeth's Relationship:

Isbeth describes their relationship as complicated, rooted in lust and hatred rather than love. She chillingly tells Poppy that when Ires tried to kill her afterward, she didn’t hold it against him, seeing it as a consequence of their toxic bond. Her casual dismissal of the violence and manipulation in their relationship makes it clear how twisted Isbeth’s perspective is.

Isbeth's Motivations for Having Poppy:

Isbeth admits that she wanted a child with godly strength and knew Poppy would be powerful from the moment of her conception. For her, Poppy was a tool for her future plans. This cold and calculating explanation devastates Poppy, who feels like a product of a cruel scheme rather than an act of love.

Malec’s Fate and Eloana’s Role:

Isbeth claims that Queen Eloana, Poppy’s mother-in-law, was responsible for entombing Malec, severing the bond between him and Isbeth. The punishment was so severe that it left Isbeth to believe Malec was dead, and she expresses bitterness toward Eloana for what she did.

Revelation of Isbeth’s Plan for Poppy:

Isbeth implies that Poppy is destined for a great purpose, but it’s clear this "purpose" is not in Poppy’s favor. Isbeth suggests that Poppy will be instrumental in her plan to rebuild the realms in a way that subjugates mortals, restoring the power structure to how it was before Atlantians existed. This revelation positions Poppy as a key player in Isbeth’s broader, sinister goals.

Casteel’s Perspective

Casteel’s Desperation:

Locked in his chains, Casteel is consumed by panic and desperation to reach Poppy. He’s aware of the bloodlust beginning to return, and with it, the danger of losing control. His thoughts are laser-focused on getting free to protect Poppy, knowing how powerful and dangerous Isbeth is, but he's trapped and helpless.

The Handmaiden’s Transformation:

As Casteel struggles with his chains, a mysterious Handmaiden enters. Her appearance begins to change as she washes off black dye, revealing her true form. Casteel is stunned to realize she looks incredibly similar to Poppy—same facial structure, freckles, and stubborn expression.

Millicent's True Identity:

The Handmaiden reveals her name as Millicent, confirming that she is Poppy’s full-blooded sister, also a daughter of Ires. However, Millicent insists that she is not a goddess, describing herself as a failure despite her lineage.

Dark Truths About Malik:

Millicent confirms that Malik, Casteel’s brother, knows the truth about her and has been working with Queen Isbeth. She hints at Malik’s complicated situation and suggests that he has been manipulated or forced into his actions, though the details are left murky.

Poppy’s Role in Isbeth’s Plan:

Millicent shares a grim revelation: Poppy, according to Isbeth’s plan, is meant to help her mother reshape the realms, returning them to a time when mortals were subservient to gods and Primals. She claims that Poppy’s Culling (the process of her reaching full godhood) will lead to her being the Harbinger—the one who will bring about this apocalyptic change.

Poppy’s Potential Fate:

Millicent shocks Casteel further by stating that no matter what happens, Poppy cannot survive. Either Casteel will have to kill her to prevent the destruction of the realms, or Poppy will unleash chaos and drown the world in blood. This dark prophecy leaves Casteel devastated, as he is faced with an impossible choice—one that threatens to destroy the love of his life.

Poppy’s Parentage:

Isbeth reveals more about her relationship with Ires and how she viewed Poppy’s conception as a means to an end. This deepens Poppy’s emotional turmoil as she grapples with the idea that she was born out of manipulation, not love.

Millicent's Identity:

The revelation that Millicent is Poppy’s full sister is a shocking twist, adding another layer to Poppy’s family dynamics. Millicent’s role in Isbeth’s plans also hints at a larger, more complicated network of manipulation and control.

Casteel’s Dilemma: The chapter ends with Casteel learning that he may eventually have to kill Poppy to prevent her from fulfilling a dark destiny. This raises the stakes dramatically, as he faces the prospect of losing the woman he loves to forces beyond his control.

This chapter delves deep into the emotional and psychological manipulation by Queen Isbeth, the tragic history of Poppy’s parents, and the looming, dark prophecy that surrounds Poppy’s future. The growing complexity of Poppy’s role as both a goddess and a potential destroyer of realms raises the tension as the story moves forward.

Chapter 27 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy’s Dilemma and Planning an Escape

Poppy's Frustration and Resolve:

The chapter begins with Poppy pacing her bedchamber, frustrated after a night of restless thinking. She had been left alone since her meeting with Queen Isbeth, and the silence and familiarity of the room only added to her agitation. She's concerned about Casteel, knowing her healing would only provide temporary relief from his bloodlust. Poppy is determined to rescue Casteel and leave the capital, but she realizes the plan must be altered. She’s also conflicted about her father, Ires, who may be imprisoned elsewhere, but she prioritizes Casteel’s rapidly deteriorating condition.

Communication with Kieran: Through their bond, Poppy reaches out to Kieran, discussing possible escape plans. They contemplate fighting their way out through the eastern gates, realizing it would risk exposing her demigod nature and furthering public fear. The chapter emphasizes the moral dilemma Poppy faces: fighting would confirm people's worst fears about her, but time is running out to save Casteel.

Decision to Create a Distraction: After discussing options with Kieran, they decide they need a significant distraction to aid their escape. Poppy’s attention focuses on the city’s Rise, a large black wall looming in the distance, hinting that she plans to use her powers as part of the diversion. Her inner conflict is palpable as she grapples with the consequences of using her godly power and what it might cost in lives.

Great Hall Tension
Waiting in the Great Hall: Poppy is summoned to the Great Hall, where Queen Isbeth mingles with the mortal elite. The opulence and excess surrounding Isbeth, draped in crimson, reflect her power. Poppy is forced to wait, growing more and more impatient as she watches the interaction between Isbeth and her subjects. This delay feels like another psychological play by the Queen to remind Poppy of her control.

Conversation with Malik: Malik, Casteel’s brother, approaches Poppy, sitting beside her. They have a tense conversation where Poppy subtly pushes Malik about Casteel’s condition, revealing her worry for her husband. Malik admits to having helped clean up Casteel after the Queen sent him a gruesome "gift." Poppy picks up on Malik’s internal shame and pain, hinting at deeper layers to his loyalty to Isbeth. When Poppy suggests that Malik’s connection to Isbeth might actually be due to Millicent, the Handmaiden, Malik's reaction confirms that Millicent is indeed a key figure in Malik’s choices.

Threats and Tensions Rising: Malik’s defensive reaction to Poppy’s mention of Millicent is intense, hinting at his emotional vulnerability. Poppy compares Malik's reaction to how she would respond to a threat against Casteel, deepening the parallels between the two brothers and their complex relationships. Malik leaves as Queen Isbeth approaches, making it clear that Poppy’s insolence is being noticed by the mortals around them.

Confrontation with Queen Isbeth
Poppy and Isbeth’s Exchange: The conversation between Poppy and Isbeth grows increasingly hostile. Isbeth boasts about her influence over the elite, stating that she could manipulate their perception of Poppy if the truth about her godhood were revealed. Poppy accuses Isbeth of using mortals like cattle for the Rite, while Isbeth deflects, framing it as culling the weak. Their verbal sparring becomes a battle of ideals—Poppy’s fight for truth and compassion against Isbeth’s cold, calculating cruelty.

Isbeth’s Chilling Threat: The conversation takes a darker turn when Isbeth reveals her plan if Poppy’s armies ever attack the capital. She threatens to line the walls of the city with newborns, forcing Poppy and her allies to choose between attacking or sparing innocent lives. The cold reality of Isbeth’s cruelty shakes Poppy, causing her to momentarily lose control of her power, as evidenced by the vibrating petals on the floor. Poppy quickly reins in her emotions, but the intensity of the confrontation leaves her visibly affected.

Isbeth’s True Desire for Vengeance: In a candid moment, Isbeth admits to Poppy that her true goal isn't ruling Atlantia but destroying it. She wants to see every Atlantian dead, revealing the depth of her hatred and desire for vengeance. This confession marks a turning point in Poppy's understanding of Isbeth's motivations—Isbeth isn’t after power or control, she’s driven purely by a thirst for revenge.

Casteel’s Struggle and Revelation
Casteel's Reflections:

The chapter shifts to Casteel’s perspective. He reflects on Millicent’s visit and her claim that Poppy will eventually bring about destruction unless he kills her. Casteel rejects this, refusing to believe that Poppy could ever become the Harbinger of chaos that Millicent warned about. Despite his doubts about Millicent, Casteel is tormented by the thought of having to make an impossible choice to stop Poppy.

Callum’s Visit:

The Revenant, Callum, enters Casteel’s cell, his arrogance and unsettling calm evident. He taunts Casteel, remarking on his deteriorating condition and his failure to feed. Callum warns Casteel that his love for Poppy will be his undoing, revealing that love can be both a strength and a weakness, as he recalls witnessing it with Nyktos and his Consort. Callum's words are laced with dark foreboding as he implies that Casteel’s love for Poppy may lead to tragic consequences.

Callum’s Cruel Attack:

In a sudden and vicious move, Callum stabs Casteel in the chest, deliberately missing his heart. As Casteel bleeds, Callum coldly taunts him, reminding him of what happens when an Atlantian loses too much blood—they descend into a state akin to the Craven, monstrous and uncontrollable. The chapter ends on a dire note, with Casteel’s situation growing even more perilous as his bloodlust threatens to consume him.

This chapter sets up intense emotional and physical stakes as both Poppy and Casteel face impossible choices and growing threats.

Chapter 28 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy and Isbeth’s Heated Exchange

Isbeth's Ultimate Goal:

The chapter begins with Isbeth revealing her true desires—she wants every Atlantian dead. Even Malik, Casteel's brother, is not exempt from her wrath, though she admits that killing him or Casteel would hinder her plans. Isbeth doesn’t blame the Atlantians for Malec’s entombment or their son’s death; instead, she holds Nyktos, the Primal of Life, responsible for refusing Malec’s heartmate trials. This misplaced blame is central to her need for vengeance.

Blaming Nyktos:

Isbeth claims that Nyktos could have prevented everything by granting the heartmate trials, which would have prevented Malec from Ascending her. She sees Nyktos as the true culprit for her suffering and seeks to exact revenge on him by destroying the Atlantians, whom she believes Nyktos views as his children. Poppy is stunned by the scope of Isbeth’s delusion, realizing that her desire for vengeance goes beyond anything she could have imagined.

Poppy's Defiance:

Poppy is horrified by Isbeth’s intentions to kill hundreds of thousands of innocent people. Isbeth insists that Poppy has already begun to help her, feeding into the idea that Poppy’s anger, power, and sense of justice will ultimately lead to destruction. Isbeth believes Poppy is destined to bring death to Atlantia, claiming they are more alike than Poppy wants to admit. This deeply unsettles Poppy, who denies the comparison but cannot completely reject the possibility that, under certain circumstances, she might be capable of extreme actions.

Isbeth’s Threat and Demonstration of Power:

The tension between them escalates as Isbeth subtly threatens Casteel to manipulate Poppy. Poppy, her voice filled with primal power, threatens to kill Isbeth. In response, Isbeth dares her to unleash her anger and power, reminding Poppy that she’s not facing an Ascended. Just then, Isbeth uses her powers to kill a couple in the Great Hall, leaving them bleeding from their eyes, ears, and mouths. This horrific display of power leaves the room in shock and forces Poppy to reconsider her next move.

Poppy’s Realization and the Need for Action
Poppy’s Resolve:

After witnessing Isbeth’s terrifying display of power, Poppy knows she is out of time. Isbeth’s willingness to senselessly harm and kill others convinces Poppy that further negotiations are pointless. She realizes that Isbeth won’t target Casteel immediately but will likely go after Kieran and Reaver first. Poppy acknowledges the possibility that Isbeth’s prophecy about her being the Harbinger might be true, but she resolves to fight anyway. She decides they need to escape that night, sending a message to Kieran through their bond, setting the stage for their final plan.

The Glass Shatters:

As Poppy leaves the hall, she catches Isbeth watching her like a predator. Poppy, filled with defiance, uses her will to shatter the glass in Isbeth’s hand, a reminder that she is not a powerless Maiden but a force to be reckoned with. This act symbolizes her final break from any remnants of fear or submission she once had towards Isbeth.

Summoning the Mist and Preparing to Fight
Summoning the Primal Mist:

Under the cover of night, Poppy stands at the window overlooking the Stroud Sea and the city beyond. She knows they need a massive distraction to escape, and she decides to summon the Primal mist that once filled the Skotos Mountains and surrounded the Craven. Drawing on her connection to the eather, Poppy visualizes the mist rising and rolling toward the city, blanketing the land and extinguishing the flames on the Rise.

The Mist’s Arrival:

The mist responds to Poppy’s will, smothering the fires and rising over the battlements of the Rise. As the mist pours into Carsodonia, the city descends into chaos, with horns blaring and people screaming in terror, believing the Craven are in the mist. The scene is reminiscent of the earlier battles where the Craven attacked, but this time, there are no Craven—only Poppy’s summoned mist designed to incite panic and confusion.

Poppy's Transformation:

The chapter closes with Poppy pulling her hood up, strapping her satchel across her body, and unsheathing her wolven dagger. The imagery marks her full transformation from the submissive Maiden to a powerful force ready to fight her way out of captivity. The chaos in the city is the perfect cover for her escape, and she is prepared to face whatever comes next.

This chapter is a pivotal moment for Poppy, as she accepts the need for immediate action and fully embraces her role as a powerful leader determined to fight for those she loves, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Chapter 29 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Poppy’s Escape Begins

Breaking Free:

The chapter opens with Poppy stalking through the halls of Wayfair Castle, shutting down her emotions as she unleashes her Primal power. She melts the lock of her chamber door and steps into the hall, where she encounters Royal Knights. Without hesitation, she takes them down using both physical strength and the eather, the shadowy essence now streaking her silver aura. Poppy's attacks are brutal, her will making reality as she manipulates her surroundings, using shadows to crush and incapacitate the knights.

Destruction of the Knights:

Poppy efficiently eliminates the knights in her path, using her power to tear them apart from the inside, a move that chillingly mirrors Isbeth’s cruelty. The chapter reflects her growing power and control over her abilities, even though she consciously locks down her emotions to avoid thinking about the violent carnage she’s unleashing.

Reunion with Kieran and Reaver
Kieran and Reaver Join the Fight:

Poppy meets Kieran, who marvels at her ability to summon the Primal mist, a power previously attributed only to the Craven or Primals. Reaver, drenched in blood from his recent kills, also joins them. Despite the mess, they all press forward, with Reaver quipping that he’s a “messy eater.”

Confrontation with More Knights:

The trio encounters a group of knights and terrified servants in a hallway. The knights use the servants as human shields, threatening to kill them if Poppy, Kieran, and Reaver advance. This mirrors a previous incident in New Haven, and it shakes Poppy, but she remains resolute. Using her will, she disarms the knights and then dispatches them, leaving only frightened servants behind. Poppy feels the weight of their fear, realizing they now see her as the Harbinger Isbeth warned them about, which troubles her deeply.

Outside the Castle:

After escaping the interior of the castle, they run through the mist-shrouded grounds, aiming for the gates. Despite the mist’s cover, they know time is short before their absence is noticed. Poppy resists using more of the eather, as Kieran warns that she must conserve her energy for Casteel.

Reaver’s Bloodthirsty Nature
Reaver’s Brutality:

Reaver showcases his savage side as they confront more Royal Knights at the gates. In a brutal display of his draken nature, he tears through a knight’s throat and spine with his powerful jaws. His violent methods leave Kieran and Poppy both stunned and impressed, underscoring Reaver’s deadly efficiency. Reaver’s silver flames also incinerate knights, adding to the carnage as they make their way through the gates.

More Revenants and Mist’s Consequences:

As they move forward, Poppy realizes that her Primal mist has drawn the Craven from the Blood Forest. While this adds to the chaos and distraction, it also brings a new threat. Kieran reassures Poppy that the Craven will keep the enemy occupied, but Poppy struggles with the unintended consequences of her power, knowing that death follows in its wake.

The Temple of Nyktos
Entering the Temple:

The group reaches the Temple of Nyktos, which looms in the foothills of the Cliffs of Sorrow. The shadowstone structure glows in the moonlight, and as they enter, Reaver notes that the temple was once called the Shadow Temple. Inside, the atmosphere reacts to Poppy’s presence, with candles igniting on their own, signifying her connection to the Primal essence.

Searching for Casteel:

They begin searching for the underground entrance to the tunnels where Casteel is likely being held. While they encounter no Priests or Priestesses, they are wary of what might be lurking in the shadows. As they prepare to use a spell to find Casteel, they are interrupted by an unexpected visitor.

Malik’s Revelation
Malik’s Appearance:

Malik, Casteel’s brother, emerges from the shadows, explaining that he followed them after their escape from Wayfair. He claims to know where Casteel is and offers to help them. However, Kieran, Reaver, and Poppy are wary of Malik’s intentions, especially after his past actions and his alliance with the Blood Queen.

Malik’s Heartmate:

In a surprising twist, Malik reveals that Millicent, the Revenant, is his heartmate. This revelation shocks the group, as Millicent is not only a Revenant but also one of Isbeth’s key allies. Malik admits to doing unspeakable things for Millicent’s sake, and his emotions are raw as he pleads for them to trust him.

A Dangerous Deal:

Poppy makes a decisive choice, agreeing to let Malik help them find Casteel. However, she warns Malik that if he betrays them, she will kill him herself, showcasing her growing leadership and the lengths she is willing to go to protect those she loves.

This chapter sets the stage for a critical confrontation as Poppy, Kieran, and Reaver prepare to rescue Casteel with Malik’s unexpected help. The tension between trust and betrayal looms large, and the consequences of Poppy’s growing power continue to unfold.

Chapter 30 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Location: Underground Tunnels Beneath the Temple of Nyktos (Carsodonia)
Malik leads Poppy, Kieran, and Reaver through a secret passage within the Temple of Nyktos in Carsodonia, accessed via a hidden pantry and a false wall. The tunnel system is a maze of narrow, decaying pathways. Malik's knowledge of the route is crucial, as it becomes clear that without him, they would have no way of navigating back. The group is focused on rescuing Casteel, and their anxiety grows with every twist and turn.

Poppy questions Malik's loyalty, especially why he didn't help Casteel escape earlier. Malik defends his actions, explaining that Casteel was in no condition to flee and would have been easily recaptured. He also admits that he stayed behind because of Millicent (his heartmate), not out of loyalty to the Blood Crown.
Kieran is torn between anger and hope, unsure whether to trust Malik. The tension between Kieran and Malik builds as they argue about their choices.

Location: Casteel's Cell
The Discovery of Casteel:
The group finally reaches a decrepit underground cell where Casteel is imprisoned. Poppy rushes ahead, only to be met with a horrifying sight: Casteel is deep in bloodlust. His skin is deathly pale, his fangs are elongated, and his eyes are pitch black, showing no recognition of anyone around him. A jagged, gory wound below his heart indicates that Callum (a Revenant) inflicted serious damage on him.

Poppy’s Emotional Turmoil:
Poppy is overwhelmed with sorrow as she sees Casteel’s condition, struggling to reconcile the feral creature before her with the man she loves. Kieran pulls her back, recognizing that Casteel is too far gone in his bloodlust to be reasoned with or approached safely. The group debates how to handle the situation, with Malik insisting they need to get Casteel somewhere safe where he can feed and recover.

Plan to Rescue Casteel:
Knocking Casteel Out:

The only solution they have is to knock Casteel unconscious so they can transport him without further harm. Malik steps in, restraining Casteel by locking him in a chokehold until he passes out. This scene is particularly intense, as it takes several agonizing minutes for Casteel to finally succumb.

Removing the Chains:

Reaver uses his draken abilities to burn through the shadowstone chains around Casteel's neck and ankles. Although Poppy is reluctant to keep Casteel shackled, the group agrees to leave the chains on his wrists as a precaution, should he wake up still in bloodlust.

Location: Above Ground, near the Golden Bridge

Escape Through the City:

The group emerges from the underground near the Golden Bridge, where they notice the city's defense efforts against the Craven, drawn in by the mist that Poppy had summoned earlier. They move cautiously, knowing that Casteel's condition leaves them vulnerable to capture by the Blood Crown’s forces.
Malik leads them toward a district called Stonehill, navigating through the outskirts of the city and avoiding heavily patrolled areas.

Malik's Admission:

Malik admits that he knows of a safe house they can use, belonging to two individuals named Blaz and Clariza, whom he trusts. He reveals that they are Descenters, involved in a plot to blow up parts of Wayfair’s walls. Malik’s complicated relationship with the resistance adds another layer of tension, particularly between him and Kieran.

Location: Safe House in Stonehill

Arrival at the Safe House:

The group arrives at the home of Blaz and Clariza. Initially, the couple is skeptical of Malik's claims about the identities of their guests, but they quickly realize the gravity of the situation when Poppy reveals her face and confirms that the unconscious man is indeed King Casteel of Atlantia.

Urgent Need to Heal Casteel:

Casteel is laid on a narrow bed, still unconscious and shackled, while Poppy prepares to use her powers to heal him. However, time is running out, as they know he will wake up soon. Blaz and Clariza, who come from a family with some Atlantian heritage, understand the dangers of a starved and wounded Atlantian, especially one in bloodlust.

This chapter is packed with suspense, emotional tension, and the growing sense that the situation is spiraling out of control as they race against time to save Casteel.

Chapter 31 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In Chapter 31, Poppy, Kieran, Malik, and Reaver attempt to bring Casteel out of his bloodlust. The chapter is filled with emotional intensity, tension, and physical intimacy as Poppy risks her life to help Casteel recover, all while navigating the deep love and powerful connection they share.

Location: Blaz and Clariza’s House (Stonehill, Carsodonia)

After securing a private room at Blaz and Clariza’s house, Poppy and her companions prepare to help Casteel, who is still in a state of bloodlust. Clariza and Blaz leave to prepare food and water for Casteel’s recovery, while Reaver keeps an eye on them to ensure they can be trusted.

Casteel’s Bloodlust:

Casteel awakens, still deep in bloodlust, and immediately becomes violent. He lashes out, almost attacking Poppy, but Malik and Kieran manage to restrain him. Malik suggests that Poppy’s blood, as a god, would be the most effective way to pull Casteel out of his feral state.

Poppy’s Decision to Feed Casteel:

Despite Kieran’s concerns, Poppy decides to heal Casteel first by channeling her eather. She touches him and begins to transfer healing energy, which stabilizes his condition but does not break the bloodlust completely. To save him, Poppy offers Casteel her blood, knowing that he will need to feed deeply.

Intimate Scene: Casteel’s Bloodlust and Feeding

Casteel Feeds:

Poppy cuts her wrist, allowing the scent of her blood to pull Casteel out of his frenzied state. He drinks from her wrist at first but is still consumed by bloodlust. His need grows, and in a sudden movement, he pins Poppy to the floor and bites into her neck, feeding intensely. Kieran attempts to intervene, but Poppy insists that Casteel needs more blood to fully recover.

Emotional and Physical Intimacy:

As Casteel drinks from Poppy, she senses his emotions—anguish, pain, and love—flowing through their connection. The intensity of the feeding blurs the line between hunger and desire, with both Poppy and Casteel feeling a deep, primal need for each other. As Casteel continues to feed, Poppy experiences a powerful mix of pain and pleasure, which leads to an overwhelming sense of relief as she feels Casteel’s presence returning to her.

Casteel’s Recovery and Desire:

Once Casteel has fed enough to regain some control, his emotional and physical desire for Poppy becomes undeniable. Despite the rawness of the moment, Casteel resists the urge to fully give in to his lust, warning Poppy that he is barely in control of himself. His love and need for her are palpable, but he struggles to contain the intense feelings coursing through him.

Reuniting and Love

Casteel’s Gratitude:

Casteel thanks Kieran for everything he has done, a moment of deep emotional vulnerability between the two, highlighting the strong bond of loyalty and love that exists between them. After the others leave the room, Casteel’s focus is entirely on Poppy, and their mutual love and desire take center stage.

Passionate Reunion:

Alone together, the chapter culminates in a powerful and intimate scene between Poppy and Casteel. Overcome with relief, desire, and love, they embrace each other passionately. Their reunion is intense and physical, filled with raw need as Casteel and Poppy express their love for each other through both words and actions. Casteel’s hunger for Poppy, both emotional and physical, is overwhelming, leading to a deeply passionate and unrestrained moment between them.

Vows of Love:

As they make love, Casteel and Poppy reaffirm their love and commitment to each other, promising that they will never be separated again. The emotional and physical connection between them is deeply intense, underscoring the depth of their bond and their shared resolve to face whatever comes next together.

This chapter is a turning point in Casteel’s recovery and in the ongoing war, as Poppy and Casteel are once again united in love and determination to face whatever comes next together.

Chapter 32 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 32 is a deeply emotional and intimate chapter focusing on Casteel’s recovery and the bond between him and Poppy. After being reunited, they share vulnerable moments as they begin to heal from the physical and emotional trauma they’ve endured. The chapter explores their love, desire, and fears, highlighting the complexities of their relationship.

Safehouse in Stonehill, Carsodonia

Casteel is recovering from the horrors he endured while being held captive by Isbeth and the Blood Crown. In the quiet aftermath of their escape, Poppy takes care of him, bathing him and soothing his wounds. Their conversation is filled with revelations, unspoken fears, and the intense bond they share.

Casteel experiences flashbacks and panic from his time in captivity, but Poppy's presence and her touch calm him. These moments highlight Casteel's vulnerability and the deep emotional scars left from his time in the cell.

Poppy’s care for Casteel includes helping him process the events that occurred while they were apart, such as revealing what happened to Tawny, her growing powers, and the new understanding of her godly heritage.

Casteel's self-doubt about his worthiness is a recurring theme in the chapter, with Poppy reassuring him that he is deserving of her love and everything they’ve built together. Their banter about feeding, piercings, and love lightens the heavier emotions, showing the playful side of their relationship.

Their intimacy is intertwined with vulnerability, as Casteel lets go of his control and allows Poppy to lead, symbolizing his trust in her and the depth of their emotional and physical connection.

Casteel's Struggle with Trauma:

Casteel, although physically healing, is haunted by the trauma of being chained, starved, and used for his blood. The chapter opens with his internal monologue as he watches Poppy bathe him, reflecting on how much she’s changed and the strength she displayed while he was held captive.

Poppy's Strength:

Poppy's unwavering strength is a focal point in this chapter. She quietly reassures Casteel with her words and actions, showing her growth as a character. Her patience and nurturing nature shine as she bathes him and listens to his fears, while also showing confidence in her abilities and choices.

Intimate Conversations:

The dialogue between Casteel and Poppy is laced with humor, love, and a raw honesty that demonstrates the depth of their bond. They discuss their shared experiences, including Poppy's need to feed and her connection with Kieran, which Casteel handles with understanding and respect.

Sensual Intimacy:

The chapter also delves into their physical connection. After Poppy lovingly tends to him, there is a deeply sensual moment where Poppy shows Casteel how much he means to her through physical affection. The intensity of their lovemaking reflects both their emotional bond and their passion for each other.

Casteel’s Fears:

The chapter ends with a foreboding note as Casteel reflects on the words of Millicent, the Handmaiden: “She’ll die in your arms.” This ominous reminder casts a shadow over the tenderness of the chapter, hinting at the dangers and challenges ahead for Poppy and Casteel.

Chapter 32 is a blend of emotional healing, love, and sensuality, highlighting the deep connection between Poppy and Casteel. It explores their vulnerabilities while also reinforcing their bond, both emotionally and physically, as they prepare for the battles that lie ahead.

Chapter 33 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Restless Thoughts:

Casteel struggles to sleep, haunted by Millicent's warning that Poppy will die in his arms. He stays with her, savoring her warmth and presence, but eventually rises to meet Kieran.

Kieran's Support:

Kieran reassures Casteel that he and Poppy are always there for him, offering emotional support after Casteel’s time in captivity. They discuss Malik’s presence and the uncertainty surrounding his loyalty.

Plans and Decisions:

Casteel and Kieran acknowledge that they have limited time before their presence is discovered. They talk about Malik's offer to secure a ship and the risk of trusting him. Despite doubts, they agree that Malik hasn’t betrayed them so far.

Revelation of Millicent's Identity:

Casteel shares the shocking truth with Kieran about Millicent, revealing that she is not only a Revenant but also Isbeth’s daughter and Poppy’s full-blooded sister. Kieran is stunned, struggling to comprehend the implications of this revelation.

Isbeth’s Plans:

They speculate on Isbeth’s grand plan to "remake the realms," possibly using Poppy or Millicent as tools to bring about this destruction. They discuss how Millicent may have been a failed attempt to create the god or Primal Isbeth needs.

Poppy’s Power:

Casteel realizes that Poppy hasn't fully completed her Culling yet, and her powers might be even greater than they imagined. He connects her ability to summon the Primal mist as a sign of her potential Primal strength, suggesting that Isbeth may be trying to exploit this power.

Poppy Wakes:

After a brief rest, Casteel wakes Poppy with affection. She is concerned about Malik, Reaver, and the state of the mist, but Kieran and Casteel prioritize her immediate need to feed, especially after the energy she’s expended.

Feeding from Kieran:

Poppy hesitates to feed from Kieran, feeling uncomfortable with the idea of "using" him. Kieran reassures her that it’s an act of support, not something to feel guilty about. With Casteel’s encouragement, Poppy finally feeds, and her strength returns.

Intimacy and Love:

After feeding, Casteel and Poppy share a moment of intense intimacy. They express their love and mutual admiration, with Casteel marveling at Poppy's resilience and beauty. Their connection deepens, both emotionally and physically, as they seek solace in each other.

A Shocking Truth:

Once they’ve shared this intimate moment, Casteel tells Poppy the devastating truth: Millicent, the Handmaiden Malik is in love with, is her full-blooded sister. This revelation leaves Poppy in shock, setting the stage for a difficult and emotional confrontation with her past and family.

Brotherly Bond:

Casteel leaves a sleeping Poppy and meets Kieran outside. Their reunion is emotional, filled with gratitude, relief, and a deep bond forged through shared experiences. Kieran expresses his anger at Casteel's decision to sacrifice himself for Poppy, but he also understands the reasoning behind it.

Chapter 34 Recap - The War of Two Queens

The chapter starts in a private room where Poppy and Casteel discuss a life-changing revelation. The scene later transitions to a cozy kitchen where the major confrontation and truth-telling take place.

Poppy's Shock:

The chapter opens with Poppy processing Casteel's revelation that Millicent is her sister. Disbelief washes over Poppy as she struggles to accept that the mysterious Handmaiden could be her sibling. She questions Casteel's certainty, but he insists based on his firsthand observation of Millicent without her makeup and dye, noting striking physical similarities between them.

Physical and Personality Resemblance:

Casteel describes Millicent's pale blonde hair and similar facial structure to Poppy. He also notes how their personalities overlap, much to Poppy's surprise. He further explains that Millicent might have failed her Culling and was saved by Isbeth, turning her into a Revenant instead of a goddess.

Casteel Helping Poppy Dress:

Amid the tension, there’s a moment of quiet intimacy when Casteel helps Poppy dress, fastening her vest and adjusting her sleeves. This calming scene offers a sense of normalcy as they both temporarily escape the chaos of their current situation.

Humor and Affection:

Casteel lightens the mood by expressing his fondness for Poppy's appearance in the vest, teasing her about removing the shirt underneath. Their banter reveals the deep bond and affection they share, offering a brief respite from the tension.

Kieran’s Concern:

Upon leaving their room, Poppy and Casteel meet Kieran, who had been waiting outside. Poppy senses his deep worry for Casteel. In response, Casteel embraces Kieran in a powerful, wordless gesture of brotherly love, which reinforces their unbreakable connection. Poppy, feeling the warmth of their bond, joins the embrace, reminding her of the emotional unity they share.

Tension with Malik:

The scene shifts to the kitchen where Malik sits with Blaz and Clariza, their mortal hosts. The atmosphere turns tense as Poppy directly asks Malik if Millicent is her sister. Malik confirms it, noting the eerie resemblance between Poppy and Millicent. This confrontation between the siblings raises questions about Malik's motives and Millicent’s true role in all of this.

Backstory of Millicent's Ascension:

Malik explains that Millicent would have been a goddess had she survived her Culling. Since she did not, Isbeth turned to Callum for help, using ancient, Primal magic to make her a Revenant. The magic saved her but twisted her into a different kind of being, making her the "first daughter" referred to in Penellaphe's prophecy. This connects directly to Poppy’s identity, cementing Millicent’s role in Isbeth’s grand plan.

The Prophecy and Isbeth's Vengeance:
Malik reveals that Isbeth’s ultimate plan involves not just vengeance on Atlantia but the destruction of both mortal and Primal realms. She sees Poppy as the key to achieving this goal, much like she had hoped Millicent would be. This is a crucial development that ties Poppy's existence to the prophecy—Isbeth believes Poppy was created to destroy the realms and remake them in her vision.

Poppy’s Refusal to Believe:

Despite Malik’s explanation, Poppy refuses to accept her role in such a cataclysmic event. She laughs off the idea that she’s powerful enough to destroy the realms, but Malik insists that she will be once she completes her Culling.

Poppy’s True Identity—A Primal:

Casteel and Malik drop another bombshell: Poppy isn’t merely a god but a Primal, a being of immense power born from mortal flesh. This new revelation radically changes the scope of Poppy's abilities and her potential role in the impending conflicts between realms. This revelation leaves Poppy reeling, challenging everything she thought she knew about herself and her destiny.

This chapter is a major turning point in the story, filled with dramatic revelations, emotional depth, and foreshadowing for the battles to come.

Chapter 35 Recap - The War of Two Queens

The chapter takes place in the same house from the previous chapter, starting in a private room and later shifting to the kitchen. The group faces a dire situation as Royal Guards arrive at their location, forcing them to confront dangerous enemies.

Poppy's Revelation:
The chapter opens with Poppy reeling from the revelation that she is a Primal, not a god. Reaver casually confirms this, explaining that she holds a Primal notam (bond) rather than a godly one. Poppy is overwhelmed by this new understanding of her powers, realizing that only a Primal can summon mist and that her evolving abilities, such as the silver streaks in her eyes, indicate that she’s nearing the completion of her Culling. Casteel’s light-hearted teasing brings Poppy back from the brink of panic, as he affectionately refers to her by various titles.

Casteel and Reaver's Conversation:
Casteel questions Reaver about why Poppy is a Primal, while Malec and Ires, who are also powerful, are not. Reaver admits that only the Primal of Life can answer this question, and that Poppy is the first Primal born of mortal flesh since the Primal of Life. This mystery heightens the sense of Poppy's uniqueness and her unknown destiny.

Malik’s Revelation and Tensions:
Malik shares more about Isbeth's prophecy, stating that it isn’t just Isbeth who believes Poppy is the Harbinger of Death and Destruction, but other gods, including the goddess Penellaphe, who foresaw this. Malik reminds Poppy that she has already begun fulfilling the prophecy by simply being born and undergoing her Ascension. This pushes Poppy toward panic, as she struggles to reconcile her free will with the prophecy that foretells her as a destroyer of realms.

Emotional Confrontation with Malik:
Malik confesses that he knew Poppy’s mother, Coralena, who believed that if Poppy was raised away from Isbeth, she would become a force for good rather than destruction. As memories resurface, Poppy recalls the Dark One (revealed to be Malik) from her childhood, the one who almost killed her but ultimately spared her. The flood of memories, combined with Malik’s admission of nearly killing Poppy, leads to an intense emotional conflict. Casteel, overwhelmed with fury, uses compulsion to force Malik to nearly slit his own throat.

Fight Between Casteel and Malik:
The tension explodes into a physical altercation between Casteel and Malik. The two brothers viciously fight, with Kieran and Reaver initially refusing to intervene, much to Poppy's frustration. The fight ends when Poppy uses her Primal essence to forcibly separate them, sending them flying across the room. This display of her growing power surprises everyone in the room, including herself.

The Arrival of the Royal Guards:
As the fight subsides, Clariza warns them that a small army of Royal Guards is approaching the house, forcing the group to quickly formulate an escape plan. Blaz and Clariza, their mortal hosts, decide to stay behind to distract the guards, allowing Poppy, Casteel, and the others to escape.

Reaver’s Power Display:
At the back door, they encounter Royal Guards who demand they step back. Reaver, displaying his draken powers, unleashes a stream of silvery flames, incinerating the guards. This shocking demonstration of power leaves the group stunned but clears the path for their escape.

Isbeth’s Arrival:
As they prepare to leave, Isbeth, the Blood Queen, arrives with her Revenants, including Callum, who holds Clariza and Blaz hostage. Isbeth criticizes Poppy’s compassion for mortals, viewing it as a weakness. She reveals that she had planned to offer Poppy a choice—a way to free Casteel in exchange for Malec, but the current situation is far more dramatic, something she relishes.

Isbeth’s Ultimatum:
Isbeth offers Poppy a deal: if Poppy wants to leave the city with Casteel, she must find Malec and bring him to her. This demand reveals Isbeth’s continuing obsession with controlling the realms and using Poppy as a tool in her revenge. The tension escalates as Poppy faces an impossible choice, knowing Isbeth’s cruel manipulations and the stakes involved.

This chapter intensifies the story’s emotional stakes, setting up major confrontations and moral dilemmas that will have far-reaching consequences for Poppy and her companions.

Chapter 36 Recap - The War of Two Queens

The chapter takes place at the house in Stonehill, with the confrontation extending outside as tension escalates. The surroundings are described vividly during the destructive display of Poppy’s Primal powers, adding a dramatic backdrop to the unfolding conflict.

Isbeth’s Demand for Malec:

Isbeth reveals her plan: she wants Poppy to retrieve Malec, the ancient god entombed for centuries. She believes Malec holds the key to helping her destroy Atlantia and punish Nyktos, the Primal of Death. Casteel is quick to point out that Malec, having been entombed for so long, likely won’t be able to help her in any meaningful way.
Poppy and Casteel are both confused and surprised by this demand. Poppy questions why Isbeth believes Malec is critical to her plan and why she didn’t ask Poppy to simply tell her where Malec is. Isbeth dismisses this, stating she wouldn’t believe Poppy without proof.

Isbeth’s Manipulation:

Isbeth tries to manipulate Poppy by playing on her love for Casteel, pointing out that Poppy would do anything for him. She tells Poppy that finding Malec is the only way to ensure Casteel’s freedom and safety. Despite Poppy’s resistance, Isbeth emphasizes how alike they are, both willing to do anything for the men they love.
Poppy realizes that Isbeth’s plan hinges on her desperation to reunite with Malec, her heartmate. Poppy begins to consider agreeing to Isbeth’s demand, knowing that they could exploit this weakness to their advantage.

Poppy Agrees:
Poppy ultimately agrees to bring Malec to Isbeth, though she has no intention of actually fulfilling this deal. She understands that Malec’s role in Isbeth’s plan is questionable, and she plans to deceive her.
Isbeth remains skeptical about Poppy’s willingness to cooperate, but Poppy counters that Isbeth will just have to trust her.

Callum’s Curse:
Without warning, Callum, the Revenant, attacks Kieran with a shadowstone dagger, slicing his arm and muttering a curse. A reddish-black smoke spreads over Kieran’s wound, and though the wound is shallow, it doesn’t heal as it should.
Isbeth explains that Kieran has been cursed, and only she can lift the curse. She gives Poppy two weeks to find Malec and return, or Kieran will die from the curse. The stakes are now raised, with Kieran’s life on the line.

Negotiating Terms:
Poppy bargains for more time, initially asking for three weeks, but Isbeth only grants her two. Additionally, Poppy asks for something that belonged to Malec to help locate him. Isbeth hesitantly gives Poppy Malec’s ring, the only item she has left of him, symbolizing her deep attachment to him.
Isbeth then demands that Malik stay behind, but Poppy refuses, insisting that Malik comes with them. After some tension and resistance from Malik, Kieran knocks him out to prevent him from staying behind and facing likely torture and death at Isbeth’s hands.

The Murder of Blaz and Clariza:
As the group prepares to leave, Isbeth unleashes her final cruelty. With a flick of her eyes, she causes Blaz and Clariza, the couple who helped Poppy and her group, to instantly wither and die. Their bodies crumble into dust, leaving nothing but dry husks behind. Callum coldly remarks that no one can come back from this kind of death, further enraging Poppy.

Poppy’s Rage:
Overcome with grief and fury, Poppy taps into her Primal essence. The power surges through her, and her emotions manifest in a destructive storm of energy. The temperature drops, and the floor cracks beneath her feet as tendrils of light and shadow lash out, destroying everything in their path. Buildings collapse, and even the Revenants are struck by the immense power Poppy wields.
As the storm of energy continues to build, Poppy’s anger grows darker, almost primal in nature. A voice urges her to give in to the rage, calling her the Harbinger. She feels the full weight of her power, threatening to consume her as she nears the point of no return.

Casteel’s Intervention:
Before Poppy can fully lose herself to the destruction, Casteel steps in. He wraps his arms around her, whispering for her to stop. He reminds her that she is not like her mother, Isbeth, and that she must regain control. Casteel’s presence and words anchor Poppy, pulling her back from the brink of complete destruction.
Slowly, Poppy pulls the Primal essence back into herself, calming the storm. The temperature rises, and the mortals who had been huddled in fear begin to recover. However, Poppy is left shaken by the destruction she caused in her rage, realizing that she had become exactly what Isbeth had painted her as: the Harbinger of Death.

This chapter is a pivotal moment in the story, showing the raw and dangerous power Poppy holds as a Primal and the emotional weight of the choices she must make in order to save those she loves.

Chapter 37 Recap - The War of Two Queens

The group is traveling on horseback through the countryside near Stonehill, eventually headed to Padonia and then the Blood Forest. The landscape includes grazing sheep, abandoned farmhouses, and the crimson horizon signaling the Blood Forest. Casteel and Poppy take a moment to enjoy the beauty of Wisteria Woods, which offers a brief reprieve from the tension of their journey.

Poppy’s Communication with the Wolven:

Poppy uses her Primal notam to reach out to Delano, who informs her that their forces have been diverted to Padonia, near Lockswood. This was unexpected, as the army was supposed to be waiting in Three Rivers. Poppy senses that something serious has drawn them there, and the urgency is clear as they decide to head to Padonia.

Reflection on Isbeth’s Cruelty:
As they travel, Poppy reflects on the deaths of Clariza and Blaz, the mortal couple killed by Isbeth. The weight of that loss and the destruction she almost caused in Stonehill weighs heavily on her. Casteel comforts her, reassuring her that she is nothing like her mother, Isbeth.

Tensions with Malik:
Malik, Casteel’s brother, travels with them, bound in chains, as no one fully trusts him not to return to Isbeth. Malik, who feels conflicted about his actions, warns Poppy that many still view her as the Harbinger, and what happened in Stonehill might not help change that perception. His comments strain the group’s mood, with Casteel growing increasingly frustrated with his brother’s pessimism.

The Curse on Kieran:
The group discusses the curse placed on Kieran by Callum, which could kill him if Poppy doesn’t retrieve Malec within two weeks. The curse, tied to Primal magic, has everyone concerned, and Reaver speculates that because Kieran and Casteel are both Joined to Poppy, they may be protected due to the longevity of her life. However, the uncertainty surrounding the curse still looms over them.

The Weight of Her Power:
Poppy reflects on the power she unleashed in Stonehill, feeling conflicted about the destruction she caused and fearing that she might have harmed innocents. Casteel reassures her that she didn’t hurt anyone innocent and that she ultimately chose to stop herself. His belief in her willpower comforts her, though she continues to struggle with self-doubt about her control over her powers.

Poppy’s Pain and Discomfort:
Poppy experiences physical discomfort, with a recurring pain in her jaw that seems to be linked to the stress and pressure of the recent events. Kieran and Casteel both check in on her, but Poppy brushes off her pain, focusing instead on the mounting challenges ahead.

A Moment of Peace in Wisteria Woods:
Casteel takes Poppy into the Wisteria Woods, where they enjoy a brief, intimate moment together. In the tranquility of the woods, they reflect on their current situation, and Casteel reassures Poppy that she is not the Harbinger of death and destruction, but rather a harbinger of change. His touch and words comfort her, and they share a tender moment, both emotionally and physically, as Casteel continues to ground her in the midst of her turmoil.

The Potential for the Joining:
The Joining becomes a major point of discussion between Casteel and Poppy. The Joining, a sacred Atlantean ritual that would bind Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran together, could protect Kieran from the curse and extend both Casteel and Kieran’s lifespans to match Poppy’s nearly unending life. Casteel explains the intimate nature of the ritual, which involves being bare and open to one another, both physically and emotionally.

Poppy is torn, understanding the gravity of the decision. The Joining could protect them from danger but also means a deeper level of connection with both Casteel and Kieran. Despite her initial hesitation, Poppy expresses her desire to go through with the Joining, knowing that it could be the key to ensuring Kieran’s survival and safeguarding their future.

Casteel’s Understanding and Patience:
Casteel is patient with Poppy, encouraging her to take time to make her decision, despite knowing that the Joining could offer a way to protect them all. He explains the emotional and physical intimacy of the ritual, reassuring her that nothing would happen beyond what she’s comfortable with. Casteel also highlights that the Joining could be revisited in the future if Kieran ever finds someone he wants to share his life with, showing the complexity of the decision.

In this chapter, the group moves closer to their goal, but the emotional weight of the journey, combined with the looming threat of Kieran’s curse, sets the stage for difficult decisions and sacrifices to come.

Chapter 38 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In this chapter, Casteel sits by Poppy's side while she sleeps, reflecting on the deep bond they share and the unresolved tension with his brother Malik. As Casteel watches over Poppy, he admits that touching her helps keep him grounded after the trauma he endured in captivity.

Casteel’s Internal Struggles:
Casteel reflects on his conflicting feelings about Malik. While Malik wasn’t loyal to Isbeth, his betrayal still runs deep, especially because of his connection to Poppy's childhood trauma. Casteel admits to Kieran that he’s not sure if he can ever fully forgive Malik, even though he understands Malik’s actions were motivated by his love for his heartmate.

Discussion About the Joining:
Kieran encourages Casteel to speak with Malik, even though Casteel is reluctant. The conversation then shifts to the Joining. Casteel tells Kieran that both he and Poppy have discussed the ritual, and while they haven’t completed it yet, they are leaning toward doing it after their journey to the Blood Forest. Kieran is grateful but assures Casteel that he doesn’t expect them to do it just for him, although Casteel explains that it’s something they want to do.

Casteel’s Confrontation with Malik:
Casteel finally confronts Malik. The tension between them is palpable, especially as Casteel struggles with the fact that Malik left Poppy in Lockswood during her childhood. Malik reveals that while he did cause harm, he had saved Poppy by getting her out of Lockswood, despite leaving her there initially.
Malik expresses guilt for the lasting scars his actions left on Poppy, and Casteel acknowledges that no amount of explanation can undo the harm. Malik also reveals that he wanted Casteel to give up searching for him, even hoping that Casteel would assume he had betrayed the family and stopped looking.

The Prophecy and Poppy’s Power:
Malik warns Casteel that Isbeth is counting on Poppy’s growing power, and that once she completes her Culling, Poppy could become a threat to the entire realm. Casteel vehemently rejects this idea, stating that Poppy will never lose control of her powers or destroy the realm. However, Malik reminds him of the gravity of the prophecy, pointing out that both he and Millicent had been aware of the potential danger Poppy posed.

Arrival at Padonia:
The group arrives at Padonia, a city nestled near the Wisteria Woods and the Blood Forest. As they approach, Casteel reflects on the beauty of the landscape and how it helps Poppy relax after passing the road to Lockswood, a place associated with painful memories.
The group is soon greeted by Delano, Netta, and other wolven, along with Naill, Perry, and Emil, who express their joy at Casteel’s return. The reunion is emotional, with the wolven showing their respect and love for Casteel and Poppy.

Forgiveness and Betrayal:

The tension between Casteel and Malik runs deep, and while Malik saved Poppy once, his earlier actions are still hard for Casteel to forgive. Malik’s guilt is evident, but the rift caused by his betrayal of Poppy and Casteel remains unresolved. Casteel is torn between understanding his brother’s motives and the emotional scars Malik’s actions left on Poppy.

The Prophecy and Power:

Malik’s warnings about the prophecy and Poppy’s power continue to weigh heavily on Casteel. Malik believes that Poppy’s power, especially after the Culling, could lead to devastating consequences. This introduces an ongoing theme of whether Poppy can control her immense power or if she’ll be consumed by it.

Love and Loyalty:

The bond between Casteel, Poppy, and Kieran is further explored through their discussion of the Joining. Casteel emphasizes that they want to complete the ritual, not out of obligation, but because of the deep connection they all share. Kieran’s loyalty to both Casteel and Poppy is evident, and their willingness to protect each other underscores the theme of found family.

Emotional Reunions:

The reunion with the wolven and Casteel’s comrades is heartwarming. The joy and love shown by the wolven toward Poppy and Casteel highlight the strength of the relationships they’ve built. These moments of connection provide a brief respite from the tension and uncertainty of the journey ahead.

Malik’s Role:

While Malik claims he wants to help Casteel defeat Isbeth and the Blood Crown, there’s still a sense of uncertainty about his true intentions. His emotional reaction to Delano, whose sister Preela was Malik’s bonded wolven, adds another layer of complexity to his character. Whether Malik can be fully trusted remains in question.

The Joining: The upcoming Joining ceremony looms over the chapter, with Casteel, Poppy, and Kieran all preparing for the emotional and physical intimacy that the ritual will entail. The ritual promises to deepen their bond, but it also raises questions about the impact it will have on their relationships and whether it will offer the protection they seek.

In conclusion, Chapter 38 delves into the emotional complexities of forgiveness, loyalty, and power as the group prepares for the challenges ahead. The reunion with their allies provides a moment of relief, but the looming threat of Isbeth and the prophecy surrounding Poppy’s power casts a shadow over their journey.

Chapter 39 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In Chapter 39, Casteel, Poppy, and their allies arrive at Padonia, where they are greeted with banners bearing the new Atlantian Crest—a symbol of unity between the King and Queen. The chapter dives deep into planning the final stages of their war against Isbeth and the Blood Crown, focusing on gathering their forces and strategizing the next steps.

Arrival at Padonia and the New Atlantian Crest:
Upon arrival in Padonia, Casteel sees the new Atlantian banners bearing the crest that Poppy designed, which symbolizes the equality of power between them. This crest, with a sword and an arrow in the center of a sun, deeply moves Casteel, reinforcing the balance between them as rulers and partners.

News of the Ascended's Cruelty:
The group learns that the Ascended rulers fled Padonia and other cities like Whitebridge and Three Rivers, leaving behind a wake of destruction. The Ascended massacred mortals in Whitebridge and Padonia, leading to widespread death and the creation of Craven. However, the mortals in Padonia fought back, reducing the extent of the slaughter compared to other cities.

The Draken Appear:
As they approach Padonia, several draken, including Nithe, Aurelia, Thad, and Reaver, soar overhead and land on the Rise. Casteel is awestruck by the sight, a rare moment of wonder in the midst of their mission.

Emotional Reunion with Their Forces:
Soldiers and civilians alike cheer for Poppy and Casteel as they enter Padonia, acknowledging their roles as Queen and King. Even the mortals express their loyalty, a testament to Poppy's impact on the realm and their strategic approach to freeing the cities without conquering them by force.

Malik's Cold Interaction with His Father:
Casteel's father kneels before him, marking a significant, emotional moment for Casteel. However, the reunion between Malik and their father is strained. Malik remains cold and distant, highlighting the emotional gulf between them due to Malik's long captivity and ambiguous loyalty.

Planning the War Against Isbeth:
During a meal with Casteel’s father and other generals, they discuss Isbeth’s demands and her desire to use Malec to destroy Atlantia. Casteel and Poppy explain that they plan to bring Malec to Isbeth to draw her out, but they will not allow her to use him for her destructive plans.

Malik's Removal from the Conversation:
Although Malik agrees to help them defeat the Blood Crown, Casteel has him removed from the strategy discussion to limit the information Malik receives. This shows that while Malik is a part of their group now, there’s still a lack of full trust.

Malec’s Entombment and Role:
Poppy and the others discuss how they plan to find Malec in the Blood Forest, which was created due to his entombment. Eloana's help in the entombment and Wilhelmina’s role are revealed, and it is decided that after Isbeth’s defeat, Malec should return to Nyktos and his Consort, not be re-entombed.

Balance of Power and Leadership:
The new Atlantian Crest represents Poppy and Casteel’s equal partnership as rulers. This is a symbolic moment in their leadership journey, showcasing that they are not just equals in title but also in power and influence. It reinforces that Poppy, though more powerful, shares responsibility with Casteel in guiding their people.

Loyalty and Distrust:
While Malik is now technically on their side, the underlying tension remains, particularly between him and his father. The strained interaction between Malik and his father reflects the deep scars of betrayal, while Casteel’s distrust in Malik shows that loyalty must still be earned, not just declared.

War and Sacrifice:
The massacre of mortals in Whitebridge and Padonia underlines the brutal reality of the Ascended’s cruelty. The discussion of Isbeth’s plans, Malec’s entombment, and the urgency to stop her reflect the looming danger. They are willing to make difficult choices—like bringing Malec to Isbeth—but are determined to outwit her and end the war on their terms.

Family and Reconciliation:
Casteel’s reunion with his father is an emotionally charged moment. While there are still unresolved issues, such as his parents' involvement in the deception about Isbeth, there is a sense of tentative reconciliation. Casteel’s decision to embrace his father, despite their differences, hints at the complexity of family bonds in the face of war.

The Role of Malec:
Malec’s entombment in the Blood Forest is revealed to be the cause of the forest’s existence, tying his story to Poppy’s powers and the land itself. The significance of his entombment and the impact it had on the world foreshadows how important he will be in the final confrontation with Isbeth.

Trust Issues with Malik:
Casteel’s careful management of Malik’s involvement in the war plans underscores the ongoing mistrust. Malik’s distant interaction with their father and his ambiguous role in the conflict suggest that his true intentions might still come into play later.

In Chapter 39, the stage is set for the final battle against Isbeth. The characters are emotionally charged, but united in their mission, even as tensions simmer beneath the surface. With the plan to retrieve Malec and the draken flying overhead, the upcoming confrontation promises to be both epic and deeply personal.

Chapter 40 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In Chapter 40, Poppy and Casteel find a moment of peace and intimacy amid the looming chaos of their ongoing war against Isbeth and the Blood Crown. As they prepare for the journey into the Blood Forest, their connection deepens emotionally and physically.

Reflection and Rest:
After discussing plans to travel to the Blood Forest, Poppy spends time reflecting on the events of the day and the challenges ahead. She takes a moment for herself in her chambers, bathing and unwinding, signaling the rare quiet before the storm of battle. She thinks of the crowns they have taken from their enemies, unsure of what their ultimate fate will be.

A Conversation with Kieran:
Kieran visits Poppy, and their conversation reveals the strong bond and love between the three of them: Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran. They discuss the Joining, an act that will tie their lives together even more deeply. Kieran is moved by Poppy's willingness to go through with it, and he reassures her that he is doing this out of love for both her and Casteel, not out of duty or obligation. Their conversation is filled with vulnerability and emotional depth, with Kieran expressing his deep affection for both of them, which goes beyond friendship but is not quite the same as romantic love.

Casteel’s Return and a Moment of Closeness:
After avoiding a deeper conversation with his father, Casteel returns to Poppy. Haunted by a nightmare, Casteel is comforted by Poppy’s presence. She grounds him with her touch, easing his tension and helping him push away the lingering trauma from his time in captivity. Their closeness is palpable, and Casteel’s love for Poppy is as strong as ever. He admits to not being ready to discuss his father’s revelations, as his focus remains on the war and their impending journey into the Blood Forest.

Intimate Reunion:
The chapter ends with a passionate and tender reunion between Poppy and Casteel. Their physical intimacy serves as a way for them to reconnect emotionally after the hardships they’ve endured. Casteel is vulnerable with Poppy, finding solace in their bond. The scene underscores how much they mean to one another, both emotionally and physically, and how their relationship serves as a source of strength in uncertain times.

The Power of Love and Bonds:
Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran share a unique bond, one that transcends traditional labels. Their discussion of the Joining emphasizes the depth of their connection, and Kieran's heartfelt expression of his love for both Poppy and Casteel highlights the theme of chosen family. This love is what sustains them through the trials they face.

Healing and Comfort:
Casteel’s nightmare is a reminder of the trauma he endured during his captivity. However, Poppy’s presence is a soothing balm for him, grounding him in the present and helping him shake off the darkness of his past. This moment underscores the healing power of their relationship, showing that they are each other's safe place.

Preparation for the Blood Forest:
While the chapter focuses on the emotional connections between the characters, it also serves as a calm before the storm. They are preparing for a dangerous journey into the Blood Forest, and these quiet moments of reflection and intimacy emphasize the high stakes of the upcoming battle. They are taking comfort in each other before they face the unknown.

Casteel’s Relationship with His Father:
Casteel avoids a deeper conversation with his father, signaling unresolved tension. This conversation is still pending, and it’s clear that Casteel will eventually have to confront the revelations about his parents' involvement with Isbeth and the secrets they kept from him.

The Joining:
The discussion of the Joining continues to build anticipation for when it will take place. Both Poppy and Kieran are committed to it, and it’s clear that this will be a pivotal moment for all three of them. The Joining will likely have far-reaching consequences, both emotionally and in terms of their power dynamics.

Chapter 40 focuses on the deep emotional bonds between Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran, as they take a brief respite from the war to reflect on their relationship and find solace in one another. This chapter highlights the strength of their love and unity, which will carry them through the challenges ahead in the Blood Forest and beyond.

Chapter 41 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In Chapter 41, the group continues their search for Malec in the Blood Forest, facing a series of escalating dangers that suggest they are nearing their destination. Tensions rise as they fight off an increasing number of Craven, but it’s not until they encounter a new threat—Gyrms—that they realize just how perilous their journey has become.

Battle Against the Craven Horde:
The group is ambushed by a large number of Craven as they make their way deeper into the Blood Forest. Poppy, Casteel, Kieran, and the others fight together in sync, using their skills to fend off the relentless assault. Though they handle the Craven, the sheer number of them is unsettling, suggesting they are drawing closer to Malec or the ruins.
Malik remains without a weapon, frustrated as he watches the others fight. His desire to prove his loyalty is met with resistance, as neither Casteel nor the others are willing to trust him fully yet.

Reaver’s Arrival and His Fiery Power:
Just as the group is overwhelmed by the Craven, Reaver arrives in draken form, unleashing a wave of silvery fire that instantly wipes out the remaining enemies. His timing is impeccable, and his power is a stark reminder of how dangerous and effective the draken can be.
Reaver informs the group that he found ruins about a day’s ride away, prompting them to continue their journey north.

Discovery of Ancient Ruins:
The group reaches a set of ancient, crumbling ruins deep in the Blood Forest. These ruins appear to be the remains of a once-thriving town, now lost to time. The eerie emptiness of the site, combined with the decayed stone structures, sets a haunting tone as they prepare to conduct a locating spell to find Malec’s entombment.

The Locating Spell:
Poppy conducts the spell using Malec’s name and a ring that once belonged to him. As she recites the incantation and uses her blood to activate the spell, the parchment burns away, and a trail of shimmering light forms, guiding them deeper into the forest.
The glowing path leads them to a mountainous structure, covered in blood trees. Casteel and Kieran discover a tunnel entrance in the rock, suggesting that they are finally close to Malec’s entombment.

Unsettling Encounters with Malik:
Throughout the chapter, Malik makes several attempts to engage Poppy in conversation, notably asking why she hasn’t questioned him more about the events of the past, particularly the night of Coralena’s death. He reveals that Isbeth forced Coralena to drink draken blood, which led to her death, a grim detail that further complicates Poppy's feelings toward him.
Malik denies being the voice behind the eerie rhyme Poppy heard the night she escaped Lockswood, leaving the identity of that voice a disturbing mystery.

The Appearance of Gyrms:
As they prepare to enter the tunnel, the group is confronted by an eerie wind and an unnatural moaning sound coming from within the tunnel. Moments later, Gyrms—ghastly creatures with waxy skin, skeletal bodies, and permanently stitched mouths—emerge from the shadows. These terrifying creatures are far more sinister than the Craven and represent a new, more dangerous threat the group must face.

The Mystery of the Voice:
Poppy’s recollection of the mysterious voice she heard in Lockswood serves as an ominous reminder that there are still unknown forces at play. The voice's similarity to the one she heard in Stonehill suggests that there may be a larger, more sinister influence behind it, potentially linked to her growing powers or the ancient forces surrounding her.

Malik’s Role:
Despite his attempts to aid the group, Malik’s motivations remain murky. His knowledge of Coralena’s death and his cryptic statements raise questions about how much he knows about Isbeth’s plans and whether he can truly be trusted as they move closer to Malec.

The Gyrms:
The emergence of Gyrms signals a shift from the familiar threat of Craven to something far more dangerous and ancient. These creatures likely guard the entrance to Malec’s resting place, and their appearance hints at the powerful, possibly magical forces that will challenge the group as they attempt to uncover the truth about Malec.

Chapter 41 ends on a tense note, with the group poised to face off against the terrifying Gyrms as they venture deeper into the heart of the Blood Forest. With Malec’s entombment seemingly within reach, the group must now contend with the unknown dangers lurking within the tunnel, as well as the growing complexities of their relationships, particularly with Malik.

Chapter 42 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In Chapter 42, the group encounters a dangerous new enemy as they continue their journey through the Blood Forest in search of Malec. The chapter focuses on their fight with Gyrms, strange and grotesque creatures, as well as Poppy's continued growth as a Primal, which includes the painful emergence of fangs—a symbol of her transformation.

The Fight with Gyrms (Sentries):
The group faces a swarm of Gyrms, also referred to as Sentries—deadly creatures that guard sacred places or people. These Gyrms, unlike others they've encountered before, contain serpents inside their stitched mouths, making them even more dangerous. The serpents inside the Gyrms are revealed to be toxic and capable of killing with their bite.
Reaver warns that the Gyrms aren’t filled with blood but with poison, which is dangerous, especially to the wolven.
The group discovers that decapitating or striking the Gyrms through the heart is the most effective way to kill them, but the unsettling serpents that spill from their mouths add an extra layer of horror to the battle.
Poppy eventually uses her Primal essence to obliterate the remaining Gyrms and serpents, leaving the battlefield free of enemies.

Poppy's Growing Power:
Poppy’s growing control over the eather (Primal power) becomes apparent when she effortlessly dispatches the Gyrms. The creatures seem drawn to her essence, further signifying her status as a Primal.
Her ability to manipulate the Primal essence to both attack and scout the cave highlights the increasing depth of her powers. She is still evolving and learning about her new abilities, especially as she nears the completion of her Culling.

The Search for Malec’s Tomb:
After the battle, the group continues their search for Malec and eventually finds his entombed body in a cave, encased in deity bones and guarded by the Sentries. Reaver helps free the casket from the entangling blood trees, and they carefully load it into a wagon for transport back to Padonia.
The discovery of Malec’s tomb raises more questions about why he was left there and why the Primal of Life, Nyktos, sent the Gyrms to protect him but did not free him. Reaver suggests that even though Malec left Iliseeum under strained circumstances, Nyktos still sought to protect him in his weakened state.

Emotional Insights into Reaver and Malec:
In a quiet moment, Poppy asks Reaver about his relationship with Malec. Reaver reveals that they were friends when they were younger but grew distant when Malec became more involved with the mortal realm. This small glimpse into Reaver’s past adds emotional depth to the normally stoic draken, highlighting the personal cost of Malec’s choices.

Poppy’s Fangs Begin to Emerge:
Poppy begins experiencing pain in her jaw, which she initially dismisses. However, Casteel soon realizes that Poppy is beginning to grow fangs, a sign that she is close to completing her Culling. Casteel is excited by the idea, teasing Poppy about how much he looks forward to her new abilities, while Kieran provides some humorous commentary, recalling Casteel’s own painful experience with fangs.
The emergence of Poppy's fangs is symbolic of her ongoing transformation into a full Primal, marking another step in her journey.

Transformation and Growth:
Poppy’s physical transformation is becoming more evident as she nears the completion of her Culling. Her newfound powers and the emergence of fangs represent her progression into her role as a Primal, though it comes with its own challenges. The pain in her jaw, as well as the changes in her body, serve as a constant reminder of how much she is evolving.

The Nature of Loyalty and Friendship:
Reaver’s conversation about his past friendship with Malec adds emotional complexity to his character. His quiet moments with Malec’s casket, where he rests his hand on the tomb, hint at lingering feelings of loyalty and perhaps sadness over what Malec became. This ties into the broader theme of the personal cost of power and choices, particularly for immortal beings like the draken.

Facing the Unknown:
The Gyrms (Sentries) present a new type of enemy, one tied to ancient and powerful forces. Their grotesque appearance, the stitched mouths, and the serpents they harbor are disturbing, and they represent the unknown dangers that come with venturing deeper into the realm of the Primals.
Poppy’s growing powers make her a target for these ancient creatures, but she is learning to face these challenges with increasing confidence.

Acceptance of Change:
Poppy's growth is not just physical but also mental and emotional. While the emergence of her fangs is initially a shock, it is also symbolic of her acceptance of the changes that come with her evolving role as a Primal. She is learning to embrace these changes, even though they signal the loss of her former self.

The Significance of the Gyrms:
The presence of Sentries guarding Malec’s tomb suggests that he is a figure of immense importance, even to the gods. Reaver’s explanation that only a Primal could summon these Gyrms hints that Nyktos is still invested in protecting Malec, despite not freeing him. This raises questions about what Nyktos’s true intentions were and whether Malec has a larger role to play in the upcoming conflict.

Poppy’s Transition:
The emergence of fangs marks a pivotal moment in Poppy’s transformation. Her full transition into a Primal is imminent, and this will likely come with new powers and responsibilities. How this will affect her relationships with Casteel and the others, as well as her ability to lead, remains to be seen.

Malik and Malec’s Names:
Reaver points out the strange coincidence that Malik was named similarly to Malec, suggesting that Casteel’s mother, Eloana, may have chosen the name out of a lingering attachment to Malec. This detail could foreshadow a deeper connection between Malik and Malec, potentially complicating the family dynamics.

As the group prepares to return to Padonia with Malec’s tomb, the focus will likely shift to how they will confront Isbeth and the Blood Crown. Poppy’s growing powers and the complications surrounding Malik and Malec’s pasts will add layers of intrigue to the upcoming chapters. With Poppy nearing the completion of her Culling and her physical transformation continuing, the stakes are higher than ever as they head toward the Bone Temple.

Chapter 43 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In Chapter 43, the anticipation surrounding the Joining reaches a climactic point as Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran prepare to perform the sacred ritual together. The chapter is rich with emotion, intimacy, and reflection, setting the stage for a transformative moment in the characters’ relationships.

Returning to Padonia with Malec:
The group returns to Padonia, placing Malec's casket in the stables. Although it feels strange to leave the body of a god there, no one knows where else to put him. This placement of Malec serves as a subtle backdrop to the rest of the chapter, reminding readers of the looming larger conflicts.

Preparations for the Joining:
Poppy prepares herself mentally and physically for the Joining, a sacred bond between her, Casteel, and Kieran. She is both anxious and excited, but determined to see it through. Casteel, as always, reassures her with gentle touches and words, reinforcing their bond. Kieran is waiting for them by the River of Rhain, where the ritual will take place.

The Journey to the River of Rhain:
As they walk through the Wisteria Woods under the moonlight, Poppy grows more comfortable. Casteel reminisces about childhood adventures with Kieran, which helps ease her nerves. Their playful conversation about Vonetta and Emil hints at the lighter, human side of their lives amidst the intense supernatural events.

The Joining Begins:
The chapter transitions into a deeply intimate moment as the three reach the River of Rhain. Under the stars, with the sound of the river and the scent of wisteria in the air, Poppy’s connection to Casteel and Kieran intensifies. The imagery of the night sky and nature provides a magical and almost otherworldly atmosphere for the ritual.
Casteel and Kieran are shirtless, and Poppy’s heightened senses pick up on their emotions—Kieran is resolute and calm, while Casteel feels a mix of amusement, sweetness, and a deep love for her.
The three strip down as part of the ritual, which requires them to bare themselves physically and emotionally. Poppy hesitates at first, but ultimately surrenders to the moment, trusting both Casteel and Kieran completely. This emotional vulnerability is a significant aspect of the Joining, reflecting the deep bonds they share.

Mutual Trust and Love:
Poppy’s emotions run high as she acknowledges her love for both Casteel and Kieran, though in different ways. She feels safe, loved, and protected by both of them, which is crucial for the success of the Joining. The ritual is more than a physical act; it is a spiritual and emotional merging of their essences, creating a bond that transcends the usual boundaries of relationships.

The Power of Ritual:
The Joining is a sacred ritual that carries immense significance in their world. The fact that the wolven are guarding them, viewing it as an honor, emphasizes the importance of the moment. The magic of the ritual is subtly hinted at, with the natural surroundings—such as the moonlit river and the wisteria-scented woods—adding to the sense of something ancient and powerful at work.

The Impact of the Joining:
The Joining is not only an important ritual but also has magical and emotional implications. What the ritual will do to their relationship, and how it will affect Poppy’s powers as a Primal, remains to be seen. The bond created here could play a pivotal role in their future battles.

Malec’s Presence:
Though not a central focus of this chapter, Malec’s entombed body remains a looming presence. His placement in the stables feels like a temporary solution, but it’s clear that his role in the story is far from over. His presence may have an impact on the Joining or the group’s next steps.

Chapter 43 serves as a pivotal moment in the development of Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran’s relationship. The Joining will likely have lasting effects on all three of them, both emotionally and magically. With Malec in their custody and the looming battle against Isbeth and the Blood Crown, the group is preparing for the final stages of their journey

Chapter 44 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In Chapter 44, the Joining ritual reaches its climactic point, binding Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran together in an intimate and transformative experience. This chapter is highly charged with emotions, physical sensations, and deepening connections between the three characters, as they exchange blood, essence, and more.

The Beginning of the Joining:
Poppy feels a whirlwind of emotions as the Joining begins—nervousness, anticipation, and uncertainty mix with curiosity about how the ritual will change their bond.
Casteel explains the process again: Poppy will first drink from his chest, then from Kieran’s throat. Afterward, Casteel and Kieran will drink from each other, and finally, they will both drink from Poppy’s throat, requiring constant physical contact throughout the ritual.

Blood Sharing:
Poppy drinks first from Casteel’s chest. His blood is warm and intoxicating, stirring her primal energy, the eather inside her. The intensity of the connection is palpable, and Casteel warns Poppy to stop before the ritual takes a different, more sensual turn.
Kieran replaces Poppy at Casteel’s chest, and Poppy watches the intimate act, feeling a powerful mix of emotions. The blood-sharing between them is erotic and charged with desire, causing Poppy’s senses to heighten even more.

Kieran’s Blood:
Next, Poppy drinks from Kieran’s throat, feeling the wild, earthy taste of his blood as it mixes with Casteel’s. The closeness between the three is overwhelming, and the physical sensations—Casteel pressed against her back, Kieran’s chest against hers—add to the tension.
As Poppy drinks from Kieran, Casteel bites into Kieran’s throat, further intensifying the experience. The dual intensity of their feeding causes a cascade of emotions and sensations in Poppy.

Dual Feeding on Poppy:
Casteel then bites into Poppy’s throat, followed by Kieran. Both of them drink from her simultaneously, and the pleasure is so intense that Poppy feels like she’s on the edge of losing control. The eather within her flares to life, forming glowing, crackling cords of energy that weave around their bodies, representing the merging of their essences.

Sensual Overload:
The Joining is not just about sharing blood but also about an overwhelming physical connection. The ritual shifts into a deeply intimate and sensual experience as Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran explore each other’s bodies in a way that transcends traditional boundaries.
Poppy is caught in a whirlwind of sensations as the primal power of the ritual merges with their physical desires. She moves between them, their bodies entwined, as they push her to the brink of pleasure repeatedly.

Emotional and Physical Climax:
The chapter reaches its peak as Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran fully surrender to the ritual and to each other. Poppy experiences multiple climaxes, both emotional and physical, as the cords of eather pulse and crackle around them, symbolizing their new bond.
The scene is one of complete vulnerability and intimacy, where Poppy fully embraces her connection to both men. By the end of the ritual, they are bound not just by blood but by something far deeper—their essences are now intertwined.

Changes After the Joining:
The chapter leaves readers wondering how the Joining will affect the trio in the long term. Will their bond deepen further, or will there be unforeseen consequences? How will this new connection influence their powers, especially Poppy’s growing Primal abilities?

The Role of Eather:

The glowing cords of eather suggest that Poppy’s Primal powers are becoming more prominent and will likely play a crucial role in future events. Her connection to Casteel and Kieran through the Joining may also unlock new abilities or strengthen existing ones.

Chapter 44 marks a transformative moment for Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran. The Joining ritual not only solidifies their bond but also hints at greater powers at play. With Malec entombed and the looming battle against the Blood Crown, this new connection will undoubtedly have significant implications for the challenges ahead.

Chapter 45 Recap - The War of Two Queens

In Chapter 45, Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran reflect on the profound experience of the Joining, now complete. The three of them lie together, entangled, feeling the aftereffects of their bond deepening through the ritual. The chapter focuses on their shared feelings of peace, connection, and love, as well as the uncertainty about what the Joining means for the future.

Post-Joining Reflection:
Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran lie by the River of Rhain, basking in the peace and warmth of their newfound bond. Poppy feels no shame or regret about crossing the line that turned the Joining into something more intimate.
They share a sense of calm, their heartbeats and breaths in sync, symbolizing their connection through the silvery cords seen during the ritual.
Poppy muses on how this experience, while unconventional compared to her past values, feels beautiful and right. She feels honored and peaceful, noting that neither Casteel nor Kieran harbor any shame or regret either.

Confirmation of the Joining:
The trio discusses the physical sensations they experienced during the ritual, such as tingling and warmth, confirming that the Joining worked. However, they acknowledge that they won’t know for sure if it usurped the curse until they face Isbeth.
Kieran’s curse mark is gone, which gives them hope, but they still need to proceed with the plan to bring Malec to Isbeth.

Lighthearted Moments:
After their deep reflection, the mood lightens as Kieran swims in the river, teasing Casteel and Poppy for not joining him. This adds a humorous and tender moment to balance the intensity of the chapter.

Casteel and Poppy’s Conversation:
Casteel reassures Poppy that he feels honored, chosen, and loved after the Joining. His emotional response mirrors Poppy’s, further solidifying the strength of their bond. They both express relief that there are no negative feelings attached to the ritual.
Their love and affection for each other are palpable as Casteel playfully tempts Poppy to join him and Kieran in the cold water, but she declines. Instead, they share a few tender moments before Casteel goes to swim.

Uncertainty Looms:
Despite the peace they feel, Poppy is unable to ignore the growing hollowness within her. She pulls the cloak around herself, trying to ignore the sensation and praying to the gods that she is worthy of Casteel and Kieran.

The Reality of the Coming Conflict:
The following day, Casteel prepares to speak with his father. There is a ticking clock as they prepare to leave for the Bone Temple, but Casteel must first confront Valyn, knowing he won't be happy with their decisions, especially regarding leadership succession.
Vonetta has been named Crown Regent in the event that neither Casteel nor Poppy survives. While the decision is practical, it shakes Vonetta when the reality of ruling Atlantia sets in.

Malik’s Appearance:
Poppy encounters Malik in the stables where Malec’s casket is stored. Malik hints at his own inner turmoil and dark thoughts, though he reassures Poppy that he won’t act against them.
The conversation turns personal as Malik reveals the painful story of his bonded wolven, Preela, who was brutally killed by Jalara. He tells Poppy that the wolven-bone dagger she carries was made from Preela’s bones. This revelation shocks Poppy, who had no idea about the dagger’s origins, having received it from Vikter.

Malik and Millicent’s Connection:
Malik hints at his heartmate bond with Millicent, but also reveals that she doesn’t know they are heartmates. This adds a layer of mystery and raises questions about how their bond might affect future events.

The Dagger’s Origins:
The revelation that Poppy’s wolven-bone dagger was made from Preela’s bones is both shocking and symbolic. This dagger has been with Poppy since her time in Masadonia, and its connection to Malik’s past might play a significant role in the future.

Chapter 45 builds on the emotional aftermath of the Joining, offering moments of peace, love, and reflection. However, the looming threat of Isbeth and the uncertainty of Malec’s fate serve as reminders that this calm is temporary. Malik’s revelations about his bond with Millicent and his wolven, Preela, add layers of complexity to his character and hint at future complications. As Poppy, Casteel, and Kieran prepare to face their next challenge, their bond will undoubtedly be tested in new and unexpected ways.

Chapter 46 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 46 switches between Casteel's and Poppy's perspectives, focusing on the mounting pressure of the impending battle as well as the deepening bond between the main characters after the Joining. The chapter emphasizes both their leadership roles and their personal connections.

War Preparations:
Casteel stands at the window of the receiving hall, watching soldiers gather in Padonia. There are two hundred thousand soldiers, ready for the final confrontation with Isbeth. He feels the weight of their loyalty and the grim reality that many may not survive the war.
Casteel reflects on the Joining and its success, noting that his heart and Kieran’s now beat in sync, a sign that the ritual worked. However, he still wonders if the Joining has truly removed Kieran’s curse.

Confrontation with Valyn:
Casteel discusses the leadership succession plan with his father, Valyn, as both he and Poppy face the possibility of their deaths. Vonetta has been appointed as Crown Regent, and Casteel insists that Valyn remain behind to support her.
Valyn is reluctant but ultimately agrees, realizing that Casteel is preparing for the worst. This conversation highlights the emotional strain of preparing for battle while also addressing unresolved family issues.

Poppy’s Entrance:
Poppy enters the hall, dressed in full armor. Casteel is struck by how regal and powerful she looks, describing her as a "Primal of War." His admiration and desire for her are evident, and he whispers to her that he wants to be intimate with her while she wears her armor, emphasizing their deep and physical connection.

Unity Before Battle:
The scene shifts as Casteel, Poppy, and Kieran stand before the gathered soldiers. They each raise their hands and shout, "From blood and ash, we have risen!" rallying the soldiers and marking their shared leadership as they prepare for war.

Journey to the Bone Temple:
The army embarks on a two-day journey to the Bone Temple, moving through the Blood Forest. Along the way, they deal with minor Craven attacks. As they camp for the night, Poppy and Casteel share a tender and intimate moment as they exchange blood, an act that has become as natural as breathing for them.

Dream of the Consort:
Poppy has a strange dream involving a woman with silvery hair, likely the Consort, and a man who reminds her of Vikter. The dream leaves her unsettled, but she wakes before she can fully understand its significance.

The Growing Intimacy with Kieran:
Poppy wakes up between Casteel and Kieran, with all three sleeping together in a tight, intimate embrace. Despite the closeness, Poppy doesn’t feel any shame or awkwardness, only a sense of warmth and belonging. She reflects on how the Joining has deepened the bond between them, creating an undeniable intimacy.
As they lie together, Poppy feels a moment of sensual tension, recalling their encounter by the River of Rhain, but she tries to suppress the thoughts. Casteel wakes up, kissing her softly, and even Kieran reminds them both to go back to sleep in a playful manner.

The Dream of the Consort:
Poppy’s dream of the Consort and the man resembling Vikter raises questions about their roles in the larger scheme of the war and Poppy’s destiny. Why would she dream of Vikter alongside the Consort? This may foreshadow future revelations about the Primals and Poppy’s connection to them.

Kieran’s Curse:
Although the curse mark on Kieran’s arm is gone, Casteel still worries whether the Joining fully usurped the curse. This uncertainty lingers as they prepare to face Isbeth, knowing that the outcome could affect not just their survival but Kieran’s fate as well.

In Chapter 46, the characters prepare for the inevitable battle ahead while also grappling with the deep emotional connections that have been solidified through the Joining. As they head toward the Bone Temple, tension builds as the stakes grow higher. Will the Joining truly protect them from Isbeth’s curse? What role does the Consort play in Poppy’s dreams, and how will this impact the coming confrontation? The chapter sets the stage for both personal and epic conflicts, leaving readers eager to see how the story unfolds.

Chapter 47 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 47 continues to build the tension as Poppy, Casteel, and their allies arrive at the Bone Temple, facing off against Isbeth and her forces. This chapter delivers a significant twist, revealing deeper layers of the prophecy and setting the stage for the return of a powerful, ancient being—Kolis, the True King of the Realms.

The Army Arrives at the Bone Temple:

As Poppy, Casteel, and their army approach the Bone Temple, they notice the enemy forces waiting for them. Isbeth, along with her Revenants, knights, and Millicent, stand ready. The scene is ominous, with tension hanging in the air as both sides prepare for the confrontation.

The Plan Unfolds:
Poppy and Casteel’s forces prepare to reveal Malec, who has been transported in a casket. The plan is to have Isbeth lift the curse on Kieran in exchange for Malec, whom Isbeth believes will help her achieve her goals. The wolven, including Delano, are on edge, ready to strike if necessary.

Isbeth’s Emotional Outburst:
Isbeth is visibly emotional when Malec's body is revealed. His skeletal and mummified state is a pitiful sight, and Isbeth expresses deep love for him, whispering words in Old Atlantian and lamenting their lost time together. This moment humanizes her briefly, showing that even someone as evil as Isbeth can still feel love and sorrow.

The Curse is Lifted:
Callum, the golden Revenant, approaches Kieran to check the curse mark. While the mark is already gone due to the Joining, Callum proceeds to draw a small amount of blood from Kieran. A black mist rises, indicating the curse had indeed existed but has now been lifted. Kieran then stabs Callum, though Callum is not seriously harmed due to his Revenant abilities.

Isbeth’s Betrayal:
In a shocking twist, Isbeth suddenly plunges a shadowstone dagger into Malec’s chest, killing him. This unexpected action leaves everyone stunned, as Isbeth wails in sorrow and apologizes to her heartmate. It becomes clear that Isbeth’s love for Malec is twisted, and her ultimate goal was far darker than anyone realized.

The Prophecy’s True Meaning:
Callum begins to reveal the true purpose behind the prophecy. Poppy was never meant to be the Harbinger of Death and Destruction, but rather the bringer of it. Malec’s death was a necessary part of a much larger plan that has been in motion for centuries.
Callum explains that Isbeth needed Poppy to complete the prophecy, as Poppy’s bloodline—being descended from the Primal of Life—was essential. However, Isbeth chose to kill Malec instead, fulfilling her own twisted version of the prophecy.

The True King of the Realms – Kolis:
The chapter ends with the chilling revelation that the True King of the Realms, Kolis, has been waiting to be awakened. His presence has been looming since Poppy’s birth, and now, with Malec dead, Kolis is set to return in his full power.
Callum describes how Kolis has been feeding on the life force of children sacrificed through the extra Rite under the Temple of Theon. As the prophecy is fulfilled, Kolis’s return is imminent, and his connection to Poppy is revealed to be even more dangerous than anyone had anticipated.

The True King of the Realms – Kolis:
The return of Kolis, the True King of the Realms, is the central focus of the upcoming conflict. His awakening marks a significant shift in the power dynamics of the world, and his connection to Poppy adds a new layer of danger.

Isbeth’s Betrayal:
Isbeth has proven herself to be even more dangerous and unpredictable than previously thought. Her willingness to sacrifice Malec shows that she is driven by forces far darker than love alone.

The Prophecy’s Fulfillment:
The prophecy has been fulfilled, but not in the way anyone expected. Poppy is not the destroyer but the one who brought about the conditions for destruction. This twist raises questions about what other parts of the prophecy might still come to pass.

The Upcoming Battle:
With Kolis’s imminent return, Poppy and her allies must prepare for a battle that will likely determine the fate of the world. The stakes have never been higher, and the coming conflict will test their strength, loyalty, and unity.

Chapter 47 is a game-changing chapter, revealing the true nature of the prophecy, Isbeth’s twisted plans, and the impending return of Kolis, the True King of the Realms. The emotional intensity of the characters—particularly Isbeth’s betrayal—adds depth to the unfolding drama. As the chapter ends, the stage is set for an epic confrontation that will decide the fate of the realms.

Chapter 48 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 48 is an explosive and action-packed chapter filled with chaos, death, and the unveiling of devastating truths. The stakes escalate dramatically as Poppy, Casteel, and their allies face off against Isbeth, her Revenants, and a new terrifying threat: the dakkai—creatures that emerge from the ground as Malec dies, causing an intense battle for survival. This chapter delivers powerful revelations, intense action, and emotional devastation as Poppy finally learns the true identity of the Primal of Life.

Malec’s Death Unleashes Chaos:
As Malec lies dying, an overwhelming blast of dark energy surges from his body, causing the ground to crack and statues to shatter. The cracks in the ground release a gray mist with the smell of stale lilacs, symbolizing the presence of Kolis. The energy and cracks spread, and the dakkai—large, terrifying creatures—begin to emerge from the fissures.

The Battle Against the Dakkai:
The dakkai, described as nightmarish creatures with hard-shell skin and jagged teeth, swarm the battlefield. Casteel, Poppy, and their allies, including the draken and the wolven, engage in a fierce battle to fight them off. The creatures seem almost endless, and the soldiers struggle to contain the onslaught.
Aurelia, Nithe, and Thad—the draken—join the fight, unleashing streams of silvery fire to burn the dakkai. Reaver also arrives in his draken form to help, warning Poppy that the essence she wields is attracting the dakkai.

Isbeth’s Betrayal and Malec’s Death:
Isbeth reveals that Malec’s death will fully empower Kolis, the True King of the Realms. She retrieves a sword, intending to decapitate Malec to ensure his death. However, Poppy intervenes, attempting to stop her by throwing a dagger, but it is deflected and strikes Delano, her beloved wolven companion, fatally wounding him.

The Death of Delano:
Delano’s death is a heart-wrenching moment for Poppy. Despite her efforts to heal him using the eather, he dies in her arms, leaving her devastated. This loss triggers a surge of overwhelming grief and fury within Poppy, fueling her powers to dangerous levels.
Isbeth taunts Poppy, reminding her that she had always intended to make her give up something precious. This further enrages Poppy, and she taps into a primal, darker side of her power, determined to destroy Isbeth.

Poppy’s Transformation:
Poppy’s rage and grief unleash her full Primal potential as she attacks Isbeth with terrifying power. She absorbs Isbeth’s attacks and sends them back with greater force, even manipulating the weapons and elements around her. Poppy becomes a force of nature, driven by her need for vengeance and retribution.
Isbeth continues to provoke Poppy, but Poppy uses the broken crown to beat her mother into submission, shattering both the crown and Isbeth’s dominance.

The Revelation of the True Primal of Life:
In the midst of the chaos, Poppy recalls her past visions and dreams of a woman with silver hair and green eyes—the Consort, who had previously spoken to her. However, Poppy realizes that the Consort is not merely a powerful figure but is, in fact, the True Primal of Life, the Queen of Gods.
The chapter ends with Poppy screaming the name of the Queen of Gods, unlocking her full Primal potential and setting the stage for an epic confrontation with Kolis and Isbeth.

Poppy’s Transformation Into a Primal:
Poppy’s transformation into a Primal marks a major shift in the balance of power. Her newfound abilities are immense, but the challenge will be learning to control them without losing herself in the process.

The True Primal of Life:
The revelation of the Queen of Gods as the true Primal of Life sets the stage for an even larger conflict. Poppy’s connection to this powerful figure suggests that her destiny is tied to the fate of the realms in ways that even she does not fully understand yet.

The Fight Against Kolis:
With Kolis on the verge of regaining his full strength, the battle ahead will be more dangerous than ever. Poppy, Casteel, and their allies must find a way to stop Kolis before he destroys everything.

Chapter 48 is a whirlwind of action, death, and revelation. The loss of Delano serves as a heartbreaking catalyst for Poppy’s transformation into a Primal, while the revelation of the Queen of Gods adds a new layer of complexity to the story. As the battle against Isbeth, the dakkai, and Kolis intensifies, Poppy is pushed to her limits, both emotionally and physically. The stage is set for an epic final confrontation that will determine the fate of the realms.

Chapter 49 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 49 of From Blood and Ash is a monumental moment in the series. Poppy undergoes a complete transformation into the Primal of Life, unleashing her full potential and tapping into an ancient and overwhelming power. This chapter is both the culmination of her journey to this point and the destruction of her past, specifically her complex and broken relationship with Isbeth, the Blood Queen. The chapter is steeped in intense emotions, revenge, and cosmic retribution, as Poppy finally confronts and annihilates Isbeth in a way that feels both brutal and just.

Poppy’s Transformation:
Poppy is struck by a bolt of lightning, which causes an overwhelming and painful transformation. Her armor and clothes are destroyed as her body is consumed by the eather, the magical essence that gives her power. The pain is described as all-consuming, so intense that it threatens to kill her and those she loves, including Casteel and Kieran.
Poppy’s physical form changes as wings of eather—a swirling mass of light and darkness—manifest, resembling the ancient Primals’ statues that guard Dalos. She becomes a powerful being of light and shadows, something infinite and primal. The entire realm trembles in response to her transformation.

The Arrival of Nektas:
A massive draken named Nektas emerges from a tear in the sky, filling the air with mist and roaring with fury. Nektas flies over the battlefield, attacking the dakkai and unleashing silvery fire. His presence is a reminder of the ancient and powerful forces that are now aligned with Poppy. Casteel and Kieran are in awe of Poppy’s transformation, but the focus shifts to Isbeth, who stands behind the altar, filled with terror and fury as she realizes that Poppy has fully awakened as the Primal of Life.

Poppy’s Divine Power Unleashed:
Poppy’s power now includes control over life and death. She walks through the battlefield, her mere presence lifting the bodies of her fallen allies—Delano, Naill, Emil, Hisa, and others—into the air. The eather settles over them, almost as if cradling their bodies.
As Poppy walks forward, the ground cracks, and her power obliterates the dakkai and Revenants with just a glance, turning them to dust. This is a show of her newfound divine might, and the blood rain that falls seems to signal the end of this cataclysmic battle.

Confrontation with Isbeth:
Isbeth, now terrified, pleads for understanding, claiming that everything she did was for Malec and her family. However, Poppy, with the consciousness of Seraphena—the true Primal of Life—inside her, declares that Isbeth’s actions were all for nothing. Her hatred and thirst for vengeance have consumed her.
Poppy, channeling Seraphena’s power, tortures Isbeth slowly, breaking her bones and draining her life force. This is a divine retribution for the pain Isbeth caused to the realms and to those of Seraphena’s bloodline.

Isbeth’s Final Moments:
Poppy, now fully embodying her role as the Primal of Life, declares that Isbeth will not be remembered in history for her deeds or infamy. Her name will be erased, and her death will be dishonorable and endless. Nyktos awaits her in the Abyss to begin her eternal punishment. Poppy shows a brief moment of pity for Isbeth, acknowledging that she had once loved her, but it is not enough to spare her. Isbeth’s body is torn apart, bleeding from every pore until she is nothing more than dust and bone. Poppy watches the entire process, making herself witness the destruction of her mother, the Blood Queen.

Transformation and Power:
This chapter is the culmination of Poppy’s transformation into the Primal of Life. Her physical and spiritual metamorphosis is a symbol of her growth throughout the series, as she fully accepts her divine heritage and the immense power that comes with it. She transcends mortality and becomes a being of both light and darkness, wielding the power of creation and destruction.

Love and Loss:
Even in her final moments, Poppy reflects on the twisted love she once shared with Isbeth. This complex relationship adds emotional depth to Isbeth’s death, as Poppy acknowledges that she had loved her mother in some way, despite all the betrayal. However, love is not enough to save Isbeth from her fate.

The Duality of Life and Death:
Poppy’s newfound powers are rooted in the duality of life and death. She controls both the power of life, which comes from Seraphena, and the power of death, inherited from Nyktos. This duality is reflected in her actions throughout the chapter as she both raises the fallen and destroys her enemies. Her power is a balance between creation and annihilation.

Acceptance of Destiny:
By the end of the chapter, Poppy has fully accepted her destiny as the Primal of Life. She understands her role in the cosmic balance of power, and she steps into it with full awareness of the consequences. Her transformation signifies her acceptance of the responsibility that comes with such power.

The Death of Isbeth:
Isbeth’s death is a significant turning point. The Blood Queen has been a central antagonist throughout the series, and her destruction represents the end of an era. However, with Kolis still a looming threat, Isbeth’s death does not signify the end of the conflict.

Chapter 49 is a climactic and emotionally charged chapter that marks the end of Isbeth and the full realization of Poppy’s power as the Primal of Life. The chapter is filled with intense moments of destruction, divine retribution, and emotional reckoning. With Isbeth dead and Poppy now fully awakened, the stage is set for the final confrontation with Kolis and the fate of the realms hanging in the balance.

Chapter 50 Recap - The War of Two Queens

Chapter 50 of From Blood and Ash picks up with Poppy regaining consciousness after the climactic battle. This chapter is filled with emotional reunions, surprising revelations, and the chilling understanding that the battle against Kolis, the True Primal of Death, has only just begun. Poppy’s transformation, the return of the fallen, and the ongoing implications of her newfound powers and lineage all take center stage.

Poppy Awakens and the Rebirth of the Fallen:
Poppy slowly regains consciousness to find herself in Casteel’s lap and Kieran’s care. Her first realization is that she now has fangs, a sign that she has completed the Culling.
She is overwhelmed to discover that those she thought had died—Naill, Delano, Emil, and others—are alive. Poppy had unknowingly brought them all back to life with her newfound powers, aided by the Primal of Life, Seraphena, and Nyktos.
Poppy's emotional reunion with Delano is particularly touching, as she cries in relief while hugging the wolven, showcasing her deep bond with her companions.

The Power of Seraphena and Nyktos:
Poppy learns that she wasn’t solely responsible for reviving the fallen. Nektas, the powerful draken, explains that the Primal of Life (Seraphena) and Nyktos played a crucial role by capturing the souls of the fallen before they could enter the Vale or Abyss, allowing them to return to the mortal realm.
Poppy also learns that Seraphena, not Nyktos, is the true Primal of Life, a revelation that shifts the narrative about the power dynamics in the world. Seraphena, long overshadowed, is acknowledged as the most powerful Primal.

The Complex Ancestry of Poppy:
Nektas reveals more about Poppy’s lineage. Her great-grandfather was Eythos, the Primal of Life, and her great-uncle is Kolis, the Primal of Death. This revelation makes Poppy’s family history even more complex and ties her directly to the cosmic battle between life and death.
The story of how Kolis stole Eythos’s essence, leading to his fall and the rise of Nyktos as the Primal of Death, further deepens the lore of the series. It also highlights how Poppy’s birth was never supposed to happen and that she is a cosmic anomaly—a "loophole" in the divine order.

The Looming Threat of Kolis:
Despite the victory over Isbeth, the true threat, Kolis, has already awakened. Nektas confirms that the events of the battle have freed Kolis, and now his corruption is spreading across the land.
Kolis is regaining his power, and the only way to stop him is to kill him, though how to achieve that is still unknown. The gods will also be awakening, many of whom may not be loyal to Seraphena and Nyktos, indicating that a greater war is coming.

The Search for Jadis:

Nektas is relieved to sense that his daughter, Jadis, is still alive. He had feared she was killed, but he can feel her presence in the mortal realm. The search for Jadis becomes a new mission, and Poppy promises to help find her.Finding Jadis will likely play a key role in the next part of the story, as she may hold important answers or powers that could help in the battle against Kolis.

Rebirth and Redemption:
This chapter emphasizes themes of rebirth and the power to restore life. Poppy's ability to bring back the fallen soldiers and her companions speaks to her growing power as a Primal and her connection to Seraphena, the Primal of Life.
The emotional reunions, particularly with Delano, show the weight of Poppy’s responsibility and the gratitude and relief felt by her loved ones. There is also a sense of redemption in the revival of the fallen, suggesting that the battle, while brutal, was not entirely in vain.

Power and Responsibility:
Poppy’s power continues to grow, and with it comes an enormous responsibility. She now holds the power of both life and death, and her choices will have far-reaching consequences for the realms.
Nektas’s warnings about balance and the consequences of reviving the fallen suggest that there are limits to her powers, and there will always be a price to pay for using such immense power.

Family and Legacy:
Poppy’s complex lineage is further explored, adding layers to her identity and her role in the cosmic struggle. Her connection to Kolis, the True Primal of Death, and her status as the Primal of Blood and Bone underscore the importance of her family’s legacy and the impact it has on the world.
The revelation that her children will be the first born Primals since Nyktos raises the stakes even further, as Poppy’s future decisions will affect not only the realms but also the next generation of Primals.

Chapter 50 is an emotionally charged chapter that delves deep into Poppy’s new powers, the consequences of her transformation, and the complex web of family and divine lineage that ties her to the cosmic battle between life and death. With the fallen revived, the looming threat of Kolis, and the awakening of the gods, the stakes are higher than ever. The chapter sets the stage for an epic conflict that will determine the fate of the realms and the future of the Primal line.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the journey through Book 4 with all its twists, intense battles, and revelations. From the epic confrontations at the Bone Temple to the rise of new powers and the emotional rollercoaster of Casteel and Poppy’s story, this book has taken us through memorable places and moments. We’ve ventured across the lands of Atlantia, witnessed the clashes at Carsodonia, and felt the tension at the Rise. This book has been packed with intense battles, shocking revelations, and powerful transformations. We’ve witnessed the rise of new powers, Poppy's continuing evolution, and the looming threat of Kolis. The stakes have never been higher as the realms prepare for an even greater battle, with the gods awakening and alliances shifting.

Journey Map of Book 4

Massene
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Cauldra Manor
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Oak Ambler
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Castle Redock

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Temple of Theon
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Castle Redrock
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Blood Forest (Travel through dangerous forest, facing Craven attacks)
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Western Pass

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Wayfair Castle Carsodonia

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Temple of Nyktos(Carsodonia)

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StonehillSafehouse (Clariza)

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Bood Forest

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Wisteria Woods

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Padonia (Gathering armies, preparation for war)
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Carsodonia - Bone Temple (Battle against the Blood Queen, major revelations)

Read Book 5: A Soul of Ash and Blood

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Book Recap Diaries : Chapter Recaps & Book Summaries