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The story revolves around the Kaul family, who are part of the powerful No Peak clan in the city of Janloon. The clan is led by Kaul Lan, the Pillar, and his brother Kaul Hilo, the Horn. The narrative explores the complex world of the Green Bones, individuals who possess supernatural abilities due to their use of jade, and the struggles for power and control between different clans. The No Peak clan is at odds with the Mountain clan, led by Ayt Mada and Gont Asch, and the tension between them escalates into a full-blown war. Throughout the book, the characters navigate the intricacies of clan politics, loyalty, and honor, all while facing personal struggles and conflicts. The story delves into themes of family, identity, power, and the consequences of one's actions, ultimately leading to a climactic confrontation that will determine the fate of the No Peak clan and the city of Janloon.
In a crowded restaurant, two teenagers, Bero and Sampa, attempt to steal jade from a drunk Green Bone named Shon Ju. They use a drug to incapacitate him, but their plan goes awry when Shon unexpectedly wakes up and confronts them. Bero escapes with the stolen jade, and in a surprising turn of events, he experiences the powerful effects of jade for the first time, feeling invincible and enhanced senses. As he flees the restaurant, he exhibits superhuman abilities, such as increased speed and strength, but is eventually stopped by Maik Tar, a member of the No Peak clan. Meanwhile, Maik Tar and his companions discuss trouble in the Armpit district and the disappearance of a black market jade carver, hinting at larger conflicts and power struggles in the city.
Kaul Hilo, the Horn of the No Peak clan, intervenes in a situation where two teenage thieves attempt to steal jade from a drunk Green Bone, Shon Ju, at the Twice Lucky restaurant. Hilo's Fists, Kehn and Tar, apprehend the thieves and Hilo returns the stolen jade to Shon, warning him to be more mindful of his jade and his behavior. The restaurant owner, Mr. Une, is grateful for Hilo's intervention, which has prevented a potentially disastrous situation for his business. Hilo then questions the thieves, learning that one of them has information about a new jade carver who has been buying jade from Abukei divers and may be connected to the disappearance of a black market jade carver, Three-Fingered Gee. Hilo decides to take the thieves to see the Pillar, likely to extract more information and deal with the potential threat to No Peak's authority.
Kaul Lanshinwan, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, is struggling with insomnia and the weight of his responsibilities. He is visited by his Weather Man, Yun Dorupon, who brings up the topic of the Kekon Jade Alliance's upcoming decision on jade exports. Lanshinwan's brother, Kaul Hilo, the Horn of the clan, arrives with two teenage thieves who have information about a new jade carver, known as the Carver, who is rumored to be working with the Mountain clan. The Carver is believed to be Tem Ben, a stone-eye and member of the Tem family, who has returned to Kekon from Ygutan. Hilo wants to take action against the Mountain clan, but Lanshinwan is cautious and orders him to gather more information before making any moves. The conversation reveals tension between Hilo and Doru, with Hilo pushing for a more aggressive approach and Doru advocating for a peaceful resolution. Lanshinwan must navigate the complexities of clan politics and make difficult decisions to maintain the power and reputation of the No Peak clan.
Lan visits his grandfather, Kaul Sen, also known as the Torch of Kekon, who is a national hero and former leader of the Green Bone uprising. The old man is struggling with the loss of his loved ones and the weight of his past, often reminiscing about the war and his comrades. Lan attempts to discuss the present, including his plans to replace the current Weather Man, Yun Doru, but his grandfather is resistant to change and instead launches into a critique of Lan's worthiness as Pillar. The conversation escalates into a physical confrontation, with Kaul Sen using his jade abilities to attack Lan, who is forced to defend himself. The old man's actions are a test of Lan's strength and intention, and he ultimately proves that Lan is alone in his leadership. The encounter ends with Lan realizing that he must assert his authority and make difficult decisions, including potentially replacing Doru, in order to prove himself as a worthy Pillar.
Kaul Hilo, the Horn of the No Peak clan, is tasked with shoring up the Armpit district and protecting the clan's territory without resorting to killing. He meets with his Fists, Tar and Kehn, to discuss the plan and later visits his girlfriend, Wen, a stone-eye from a disgraced family. Hilo and Wen's relationship is intimate and passionate, but also complicated by the fact that Wen is not a Green Bone and Hilo's family, particularly his sister Shae, may not approve of her. Hilo confides in Wen about his concerns regarding the potential war with the Mountain clan and his brother Lan's leadership. Wen encourages Hilo to prepare for war and to utilize his Fists and Fingers to defend No Peak. Hilo considers visiting the Kaul Du Academy to assess the upcoming generation of Green Bones and potentially recruit new Fists. Throughout the chapter, Hilo's character is explored, revealing his personality, motivations, and relationships, as well as the complexities of being a high-ranking member of a powerful clan.
Kaul Shaelinsan, also known as Shae, returns to Janloon after two years abroad in Espenia, feeling a mix of emotions as she leaves behind her attempts to forge a new life and identity. She arrives at the Janloon International Airport and takes a taxi to her family's estate, where she is greeted by her brother Lan and later meets with their grandfather, Kaul Sen. Shae's grandfather is overjoyed to see her, but also disapproving of her decision to remove her jade and live a life without it. He emphasizes the importance of their Green Bone heritage and the need for her to reclaim her place in the family and clan. Shae reassures him that she has come home, but also asserts her desire for independence and time to settle into her new life. Later, she meets with her other brother, Hilo, who is eager to involve her in the clan's business and tensions with the Mountain clan. However, Shae resists his attempts to draw her back into the clan's affairs, citing her need for time and space to figure out her own path. Hilo reluctantly agrees to respect her wishes, but warns her that his patience is limited.
Emery Anden, a year-eight student at Kaul Dushuron Academy, is training to become a Green Bone. He and his classmates are put through a challenging exercise by Master Sain, where they must use their Strength and Steel disciplines to break bricks without getting burned. Anden succeeds in the task, impressing Sain. After the training session, Anden is visited by his cousin, Kaul Hilo, the Horn of the No Peak clan. Hilo is his usual energetic and charismatic self, and the two engage in a fierce and playful fight, with Hilo testing Anden's abilities. Hilo offers Anden advice on how to navigate the world of Green Bones and warns him about the potential dangers of wearing jade. Anden is concerned about his own ability to handle jade, given his mixed-race parentage and his mother's tragic history with jade addiction. Hilo reassures him that he will be able to handle it and offers to provide him with a special drug called SN1, also known as "shine", if he needs it. The conversation turns to the tensions between the No Peak and Mountain clans, with Hilo hinting that trouble is on the way. Anden is unsure what to make of this, but Hilo's words leave him with a sense of unease.
Anden Emery, a student at Kaul Dushuron Academy, finds himself in a precarious situation on Boat Day, a holiday in Kekon. After getting separated from his friends, he accidentally wanders into Mountain territory and is confronted by three teenagers from Wie Lon School. Despite being outnumbered, Anden defends himself, but the fight is interrupted by Gont Aschentu, the Horn of the Mountain clan. Gont intervenes, stopping the fight and taking Anden into his custody. Anden is uneasy, knowing that Gont's intentions may not be pure, especially given the tense relationship between the Mountain and No Peak clans. As they drive through the city, Gont shares stories about Anden's family and their complex history with the Green Bones, making Anden increasingly uncomfortable. Gont's true motives for taking Anden remain unclear, but it becomes apparent that he is trying to manipulate Anden and potentially drive a wedge between him and his adoptive family, the Kauls. The car eventually heads towards the Mountain clan's territory, leaving Anden's fate uncertain.
The Mountain clan has taken Anden, a member of the Kaul family, and is using him as leverage to prevent the No Peak clan's Horn, Kaul Hilo, from taking action. The Mountain's Horn, Gont Asch, contacts the No Peak Pillar, Kaul Lan, to inform him of the situation and warns him to keep Hilo under control. Lan is concerned for Anden's safety and tries to reach Hilo to prevent him from reacting impulsively. Hilo is furious and has surrounded Gont's nephew's apartment building, but Lan manages to calm him down and instructs him to wait for Anden's release in the Temple District. The situation is tense, with the Mountain clan trying to provoke the No Peak clan into breaking aisho, the code of honor that governs the behavior of Green Bones. Lan must navigate the complex web of clan politics and alliances to ensure Anden's safe return and prevent all-out war between the clans.
Anden Emery, a student at Kaul Dushuron Academy, is taken to the Ayt mansion, the residence of Ayt Mada, the Pillar of the Mountain clan. He is brought before Ayt Mada, who makes him an offer to join the Mountain clan as a Fist, with the opportunity to work in Ygutan and oversee the clan's expansion into the country. However, Anden soon realizes that the true purpose of the offer is not to recruit him, but to extend an olive branch to the No Peak clan, proposing an alliance and cooperation in the production and trade of SN1, a drug that allows non-Kekonese to wear jade. Ayt Mada reveals her plan to sell SN1 to foreigners, which would give the Mountain clan control over the trade and allow them to profit from it. Anden is tasked with delivering Ayt Mada's proposal to the Pillar of the No Peak clan, Kaul Lan, and is warned that the Mountain clan will not wait long for a response. The meeting is a calculated move by Ayt Mada to test the waters and gauge the No Peak clan's interest in forming an alliance, and Anden is caught in the middle, forced to navigate the complex web of clan politics and alliances.
Anden Emery is released by the Mountain clan after being taken as leverage to prevent the No Peak clan's Horn, Kaul Hilo, from taking action. Anden meets with Kaul Lan, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, and informs him of the Mountain's proposal to produce and sell SN1, a drug that allows non-Kekonese to wear jade, in Ygutan. Lan discusses the proposal with Hilo and the Weather Man, Doru, and decides to decline the alliance, choosing instead to remain neutral and allow the Mountain to pursue the venture on their own. Lan's decision is based on his concerns about the potential consequences of increasing jade exports and the erosion of the natural order of society. He also orders Hilo to bolster defenses in No Peak's territories and to protect his sister, Shae, who is not wearing jade and may be vulnerable to attack. The chapter ends with Lan's decision being met with disappointment from Doru, but Hilo seems to accept it, albeit grudgingly.
Bero, still recovering from his previous encounter with the Green Bones, is struggling to come to terms with his new appearance and limitations. He is drawn to a man named Mudt, a fence who operates in the shadows and is rumored to have jade. Mudt is a complex figure with possible Abukei heritage and a reputation for being resourceful and cunning. He has a jade stud pierced through his tongue, which he uses to assert his power and perception. Bero is intrigued by Mudt's independence and ability to thrive outside of the traditional Green Bone clans. He expresses his desire to work for Mudt, who seems to offer a path to power and wealth that doesn't require being born into the right family or having the right connections. Mudt's true loyalties and motivations are unclear, but Bero is drawn to his confidence and self-assurance, seeing him as a potential mentor and key to unlocking his own ambitions.
Shae is settling into her new life in Janloon, enjoying the independence and anonymity of living in the North Sotto district. However, she is aware of the clan's presence and influence in the area. She meets her new neighbor, Caun Yudenru, and they exchange introductions, although Shae is briefly embarrassed when she inadvertently uses an informal greeting. Later, her brother Lan visits her at her apartment, and after some small talk, he reveals that he has come to ask for her help. He is concerned that the Weather Man, Doru, may not be entirely trustworthy and needs someone he can rely on to investigate the clan's mining operations and ensure that everything is in order. Lan asks Shae to go to the mines, review the books, and verify that the records match the official Kekon Jade Alliance records. Shae is initially hesitant, fearing that this might be the start of her being drawn back into the clan's business, but Lan assures her that this is a one-time favor and he will not ask anything more of her. She eventually agrees to help her brother, putting her own plans on hold.
Lan, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, visits Chancellor Son at Wisdom Hall to discuss a proposal to prevent any one clan from gaining majority control of the Kekon Jade Alliance. Lan's goal is to maintain a balance of power and prevent the Mountain clan from dominating the jade trade. He suggests a law that would trigger an automatic redistribution of ownership if any clan reaches a 45% ownership threshold. Chancellor Son agrees with Lan's concerns but hints that he will need something in return for his support, such as the clan's assistance in addressing the city's port strike. Lan offers to prioritize the issue and potentially implement a clan-enforced tariff on foreign imports to benefit the Son family's textile business. The meeting concludes with an agreement, but Lan is aware that the chancellor's support comes with a price, and he must carefully navigate the complex web of clan politics and alliances to achieve his goals.
Kaul Hilo, the Horn of the No Peak clan, visits the Chrome Demons, a motorcycle gang in the Coinwash district, to address complaints about noise and disorderliness. He offers them a deal: in exchange for information about Tem Ben, a black market jade carver, and his connections to the Mountain clan, Hilo will leave them alone and allow them to operate without interference from the No Peak clan. The gang agrees to the deal, and their leader, Okan, kneels and pledges his word to Hilo. Hilo's goal is to gather intelligence on Tem Ben and the Mountain clan's activities, and he is willing to overlook the Chrome Demons' illicit activities in Mountain territory in order to achieve this goal. The encounter showcases Hilo's tactical approach to maintaining power and control in No Peak territory, as well as his ability to navigate complex web of alliances and rivalries between different gangs and clans.
Shae visits a jade mine in the mountains of Kekon to inspect the operations and review the financial records as a favor to her brother, Lan. She is struck by the vast amount of raw jade being extracted and the harsh conditions faced by the Abukei workers. As she reviews the records, she notices that the mine has made significant capital investments in the past year, but the equipment purchase orders are signed by Gont Aschentu, the Horn of the Mountain clan, which seems unusual since the mines are state-operated and not directly managed by the clans. Shae's discovery raises questions about the involvement of the Mountain clan in the mine's operations and potential irregularities in the financial records. She decides to return to the city immediately to investigate further and report her findings to Lan.
Lan, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, visits the Lilac Divine Gentleman's Club to unwind and enjoy the company of a charm girl named Yunni. He is initially able to relax and forget his worries, but his mind soon turns to the tensions between the No Peak and Mountain clans, and the potential consequences of his decisions. Lan is troubled by the fact that the Mountain clan is secretly involved in the jade mines, and that his Weather Man, Doru, may not be trustworthy. He also worries about his brother Hilo's impulsiveness and the potential for conflict between the clans. As Lan is about to drift off to sleep with Yunni, he is interrupted by a urgent message from Mrs. Sugo, the owner of the club, who informs him that someone from the clan has arrived with an urgent message. Lan is forced to return to his duties as Pillar, and he learns that the Mountain clan has struck, whispering Hilo's name and sparking a potential crisis.
Hilo, the Horn of the No Peak clan, is ambushed by Mountain clan members while investigating a vandalism incident in the Armpit district. Despite being outnumbered and outmaneuvered, Hilo uses his Green Bone abilities to defend himself and kill two of his attackers. However, his Fist, Maik Tar, is severely injured in the process. Hilo makes a public statement, warning that anyone who helps or hides the fleeing attackers will be considered an enemy of No Peak. He then gathers the jade from the slain foes and rushes Tar to a hospital. The incident escalates the tensions between the No Peak and Mountain clans, and Hilo's actions set the stage for further conflict.
Shae discovers that someone is stealing jade from the Kekon Treasury and uncovers evidence of the theft by analyzing records from the mines, the Kekon Jade Alliance, and the Treasury itself. She realizes that the missing jade is not being officially accounted for and decides to inform her brother Lan. However, when she arrives at the Kaul house, she finds her brothers in a council of war, planning to retaliate against the Mountain clan for attempting to kill Hilo. Lan and Hilo prepare to lead their fighters to the Factory, where the would-be assassins are hiding, and Shae is left to stay behind and keep an eye on their grandfather, Kaul Sen, who is fiercely opposed to the impending war. As Lan and Hilo depart, Shae is filled with a sense of apprehension and worry for her family's safety.
The No Peak clan, led by Pillar Kaul Lan and Horn Kaul Hilo, arrive at the Factory, a Mountain-controlled territory, to confront the assassins who attempted to kill Hilo. The Mountain clan sends out two Green Bones, Gam and Chon, to negotiate, with Gam offering to die by a "clean blade" as a sign of his clan's willingness to negotiate. Lan accepts the challenge and engages in a fierce duel with Gam, using his jade abilities and moon blade to gain the upper hand. Despite being initially uncertain, Lan emerges victorious, killing Gam and claiming his jade. The No Peak clan celebrates their victory, with Lan declaring that they will defend and avenge their own, and that anyone who seeks to war with them will face severe consequences. As they leave the Factory, Lan is hailed by his clan's warriors, and Hilo seems to approve of his brother's actions. However, Lan is left feeling injured and uncertain, wondering if anyone else noticed how close the fight was.
Shae sits with her grandfather, Kaul Sen, who is struggling with the current state of the world and the Green Bone clans. He expresses his disappointment and frustration with the way things are, and Shae tries to comfort him. Meanwhile, her brothers Lan and Hilo return from a confrontation with the Mountain clan, and they discuss the outcome and the implications for the No Peak clan. Shae shares her findings about the missing jade from the Kekon Treasury, which suggests that the Mountain clan is smuggling jade and that the Weather Man, Doru, may be involved. Lan and Hilo decide to investigate further and to keep the information secret for now. Shae is tasked with documenting her findings and sending them to a trusted ally, Woon Papidonwa. The chapter ends with Shae feeling uncertain and conflicted about her role in the clan and her relationships with her brothers and grandfather.
Lan and Hilo discuss their next moves in response to the Mountain clan's actions, with Lan asking Hilo to investigate Doru's potential treason and Hilo agreeing to do so. Lan also reveals his concerns about his own jade aura, which is affecting his emotions and behavior, and Hilo notices that Lan's aura is "flaring" and advises him to remove the new jade he's wearing. After Lan takes off the jade, he and Hilo talk about Hilo's desire to marry Wen, a stone-eye from a disgraced family, and Lan eventually gives his blessing for the marriage, despite initial reservations about the potential consequences for the clan. The chapter ends with Hilo kneeling and reciting the Green Bone clan oaths, promising his loyalty and honor to Lan, and Lan feeling a sense of relief and hope that his brother's happiness will bring some stability to their tumultuous lives.
Bero and his accomplices successfully hijack a trailer truck at the Docks, making off with a large shipment of expensive goods. They meet with Mudt, a fence who operates in the shadows, to collect their payment and receive a new assignment. Mudt introduces them to a Green Bone, who offers them a chance to work with the No Peak clan and provides them with submachine guns. The Green Bone warns them to use the guns responsibly and to keep a low profile, as the clan war between No Peak and the Mountain clan is intensifying. Bero and his accomplice, Cheeky, are drawn into the world of organized crime and jade smuggling, with the promise of power and wealth. Meanwhile, Mudt receives a shipment of unknown contents from the Green Bone, with a warning to follow the rules and not hoard or resell the contents. The chapter ends with the Green Bone departing into the approaching typhoon, leaving Bero and Cheeky to navigate their new roles in the criminal underworld.
The chapter takes place after a typhoon has hit Janloon, and the city is in the process of cleaning up and recovering. Anden, a student at Kaul Dushuron Academy, is helping with the relief efforts in the Temple District. He and his classmates, including Lott, are discussing the upcoming war between the No Peak and Mountain clans. Lott mentions that he heard about Anden's encounter with Gont Asch, the Horn of the Mountain clan, on Boat Day, and Anden is surprised that Lott knows about it. Later, Gont appears in the district, handing out traditional Autumn Festival cakes to the crowd. He calls out to Anden and his classmates, and when Anden approaches, Gont whispers a warning to him, telling him not to offend the Mountain clan in the future. Anden is wary of Gont's intentions and feels a sense of unease after their encounter. The chapter highlights the tensions between the No Peak and Mountain clans, as well as Anden's complicated relationships with his classmates and his own identity as a potential Green Bone.
Kaul Hilo, the Horn of the No Peak clan, is dealing with the aftermath of an attempt on his life and the escalating tensions between his clan and the Mountain clan. He visits his injured Fist, Maik Tar, in the hospital and discusses their next moves, including investigating the theft of jade and luxury goods in the Docks area. Hilo also talks to his fiancée, Wen, about their upcoming wedding and his desire to keep her safe from the clan war. However, Wen expresses her desire to be involved in the clan's business and to use her skills to help Hilo, which he rejects due to her being a stone-eye. Hilo reflects on his relationships with his family members, including his sister Shae, whom he feels is distant and unappreciative, and his brother Lan, with whom he has brief and tactical conversations. As the clan war looms, Hilo is preparing for battle, promoting Fists and Fingers, and gathering intelligence on the Mountain clan's organization. He is aware that the Mountain clan will not give up easily and that another attempt on his life is likely, and he is taking steps to protect himself and his clan.
The Pillar of the No Peak clan, Kaul Lan, meets with the Lantern Men, a group of influential businessmen, to discuss the escalating tensions between the No Peak and Mountain clans. Lan announces that he will be suspending the activities of the Kekon Jade Alliance, citing financial discrepancies and the need for an independent audit. He believes the Mountain clan is behind the discrepancies and hopes that the audit will reveal their wrongdoing, turning public opinion against them. Lan also meets with members of the Royal Council, including Chancellor Son, to inform them of his decision and to garner their support. However, Lan's health is deteriorating due to his damaged kie, and he struggles to maintain his composure during the meetings. He confides in his Pillarman, Woon, and asks him to make a secretive phone call, indicating that Lan is seeking external help to address his health issues and the clan's problems.
Shae visits her mother in the seaside town of Marenia, where she reflects on her past and her decision to remove her jade and live a life outside of the Green Bone clan. She returns to Janloon and discovers that her brother Hilo has been having her watched and followed by a Finger named Caun, who has been posing as her neighbor. Shae confronts Hilo, who explains that he had Caun watching her for her own protection, especially after the Mountain clan's attempt to kill him. Hilo and Shae have a heated argument, with Hilo accusing Shae of ignoring her responsibilities as a Kaul and Shae insisting that she wants to be left alone to live her life. The argument ends with Shae demanding that Hilo stop having her followed and Hilo respecting her wishes.
Anden is asked by the Pillar, Kaul Lan, to pick up a package from a mysterious address. Anden is unsure why Lan has asked him to perform this task, but he agrees to do so. When he arrives at the address, he meets a foreign man who hands him a padded envelope. Anden takes the envelope to Lan, who quickly stores it away without explanation. Later, while practicing Deflection with Lan, Anden becomes curious about the contents of the envelope and decides to sneak a peek. He discovers that the envelope contains vials of SN1, a drug that allows non-Kekonese to wear jade. Anden is shocked and feels betrayed by Lan's secrecy. Lan explains that he needs the SN1 to help him cope with the effects of wearing new jade, which is causing him physical and emotional strain. Anden is torn between his loyalty to Lan and his concern for the Pillar's well-being. Lan asks Anden to keep the secret, and Anden agrees, but he is unsure if he can trust Lan's judgment. The chapter ends with Anden feeling uncertain and conflicted about his role in the clan and his relationships with his cousins.
Bero is approached by a Green Bone with a goatee who has a new job for him and his accomplice, Cheeky. The job involves shooting up the Lilac Divine Gentleman's Club, a high-end establishment affiliated with the No Peak clan, to make a big impression and prove their value to the clan. The Green Bone promises that if they succeed, they will be "cut in" with the clan, but Bero is skeptical and wants assurance that this will be the last test. The Green Bone refuses to make any promises, leaving Bero and Cheeky to await further instructions. The job is a risky one, as the Lilac Divine is a popular spot for Lantern Men and Green Bones, and the consequences of failure could be deadly. Bero's motivation for taking on the job is driven by his desire to prove himself and gain power, as well as his resentment and envy towards the Green Bones who seem to hold all the power in his world.
Shae attends a relayball game to watch her cousin Anden play, and they meet up afterward to catch up. Anden is impressive on the field, and Shae is proud of him, but their conversation is strained as Anden tries to discuss his concerns about the clan's situation and Lan's decision-making. Shae advises Anden to focus on his studies and not get too involved in clan business, but Anden is clearly worried and feels a sense of responsibility to the clan. After they part ways, Shae visits the Janloon Temple of Divine Return, seeking guidance and solace. She reflects on her past and her decision to leave the clan, feeling uncertain and disconnected from her family and her cultural heritage. As she prays, she asks for a sign or guidance, seeking to reconcile her feelings and find a sense of direction.
Lan, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, receives a phone call from his brother Hilo, informing him that they have found proof of Doru's betrayal. Lan decides to confront Doru and tasks Woon with taking over as the new Weather Man. Meanwhile, Bero, a young man with a grudge against the Green Bones, is hired to shoot up the Lilac Divine Gentleman's Club, but he discovers that Lan is leaving the club and decides to follow him instead. Lan, sensing danger, uses his jade abilities to evade his pursuers, but he soon succumbs to the effects of an overdose of SN1, a drug that allows non-Kekonese to wear jade. As Lan struggles to stay conscious, Bero and his accomplice attack him, and despite Lan's attempts to defend himself, he is overwhelmed and falls into the water, where he loses consciousness.
Shae is awakened by a phone call from her brother Hilo, who informs her that their brother Lan is dead. Hilo sends a car to pick her up and take her to the family house. On the way, Shae stops at a bank to retrieve her jade from a safe deposit box, which she had not worn in two and a half years. As she puts on the jade, she feels its power and is swept up in a mix of emotions, including grief, guilt, and a desire for vengeance. When she arrives at the house, she finds Hilo and several Fists, all armed and ready for action. Hilo is consumed by rage and a desire for revenge, and Shae tells him she will go with him and help him find those responsible for Lan's death. Hilo is resolute in his intention to kill those who killed his brother, and Shae is determined to support him.
Gont Asch, the Horn of the Mountain clan, is at the Silver Spur Cockfight Pit & Bar when he receives a message that Kaul Lan is dead and Kaul Hilo is coming to kill him. Gont prepares for battle, gathering his Green Bone warriors and clearing the area. However, it's revealed that Hilo's approach is a ruse, and instead, he and his sister Shae lead a surprise attack on the Mountain clan's betting houses on Poor Man's Road. Shae and Hilo's team kill several Mountain Green Bones and take control of the area, with Shae offering the staff a choice to swear allegiance to No Peak or leave. The attack sparks a clan-on-clan violence outbreak in Janloon, with Gont ultimately declaring open war with No Peak, stating that their lives and livelihoods are now fair game.
Shae wakes up in her childhood bedroom, confused and disoriented, with memories of the previous night's violent events flooding back. She had put on her jade and joined her brother Hilo in seeking revenge for their brother Lan's death. Now, she feels numb and struggles to come to terms with her actions. Downstairs, she finds Hilo eating breakfast, calm and collected despite the chaos. He informs her that their grandfather is sedated and unwell, and that the rest of the clan is busy dealing with the aftermath of their attack on the Mountain clan. Hilo reveals that he has taken Doru, the traitorous Weather Man, into custody and stripped him of his jade. As the new Pillar, Hilo asks Shae to be his Weather Man, to help him navigate the treacherous clan politics and to moderate his actions. Shae, feeling a sense of responsibility and duty to her family and clan, agrees to take on the role, kneeling and pledging her loyalty to Hilo.
Bero, still reeling from the events of the previous night, arrives at the Goody Too, a fence operation run by Mudt, to collect his reward for killing Kaul Lan, the Pillar of the No Peak clan. However, instead of being congratulated, Bero is met with horror and anger by Mudt, who reveals that the plan was only to shoot up the Lilac Divine Gentleman's Club, not to kill Kaul Lan. Mudt, fearing retribution from the Green Bones, tells Bero to leave the city immediately and provides him with a secret tunnel to escape through. Bero is forced to flee, realizing that his actions have put him in grave danger and that he is no longer welcome in Janloon. As he makes his way through the tunnel, he is filled with a mix of emotions, including fear, anger, and a sense of betrayal. Despite his initial reluctance, Bero decides to trust his luck and continue on, hoping to escape the city and find a new path forward.
The chapter describes the funeral procession of Kaul Lan, the former Pillar of the No Peak clan, as it winds its way through the streets of Janloon to the family's ancestral burial grounds. The atmosphere is tense, with the threat of violence from the Mountain clan looming in the background. Hilo, the new Pillar, is exhausted and struggling to come to terms with his new role, while his family and clan members gather to pay their respects to the deceased. Chancellor Son, a key ally, pays his condolences, but Hilo senses his wariness and ambivalence towards the new Pillar. Meanwhile, Anden, a young member of the clan, reveals to Hilo that he had been running errands for Lan before his death, including picking up packages containing vials of a mysterious substance. Hilo warns Anden to keep this secret and not to sully Lan's memory. As the funeral comes to a close, Hilo is left alone with his grandfather, Kaul Sen, who breaks down in tears, revealing the depth of his grief and vulnerability. Hilo promises to take care of the clan and make things right, and eventually, he is left alone by Lan's grave, where he speaks to his brother's spirit, vowing to prove himself as a capable Pillar and to keep the oaths he made to Lan.
Shae visits the former Weather Man, Yun Dorupon, who is being held under guard after being stripped of his jade. Doru explains that he betrayed the No Peak clan in an attempt to bring the clans together and prevent further conflict, but his methods were misguided and ultimately led to the death of Lan, the former Pillar. Shae is disgusted by Doru's actions, but offers him a pardon and a chance to redeem himself by spending time with their ailing grandfather, Kaul Sen, and providing him with comfort and familiar routine. Doru agrees to Shae's terms, swearing to take no further part in clan business and to keep his past actions a secret. Shae hopes that by sparing Doru's life, she can bring some comfort to her grandfather in his final days, and she is willing to fight her brother Hilo to make it happen.
The Twice Lucky restaurant, a prized establishment in the Docks area, is taken over by the Mountain clan, led by Gont Asch, as part of their attack on No Peak territory. The restaurant's owner, Mr. Une, is forced to choose between swearing allegiance to the Mountain clan or seeing his business destroyed. Despite initial reluctance, Mr. Une ultimately pledges his loyalty to the Mountain clan, saving his restaurant from being burned to the ground. Gont Asch, impressed by the restaurant's crispy squid, accepts Mr. Une's pledge and declares that the Mountain clan will take over all of No Peak's territory, destroying anything they cannot claim. The chapter highlights the intense clan war between No Peak and the Mountain clan, with businesses and lives caught in the crossfire.
Shae, the new Weather Man of the No Peak clan, stands in front of the large windows in Doru's corner office, looking out at the city. She is nervous and unsure of herself, but determined to prove herself as a capable leader. She meets with Woon, a former Pillarman, and asks for his help in running the Weather Man's office. Woon agrees to be her Chief of Staff, and Shae also meets with Hami, a senior Luckbringer, who becomes the new Master Luckbringer. Shae holds a staff meeting and announces her plans to make changes in the clan, including evaluating senior positions and reaching out to Lantern Men to recruit new Luckbringers. She also reveals that she has fired the current Master Luckbringer, Pado Soreeto, and replaced him with Hami. The meeting is tense, but Shae's determination and confidence seem to win over some of the Luckbringers. After the meeting, Shae receives a call from the Minister of Tourism, who is angry about the Green Bone war and demands to speak to Doru. Shae informs him that she is the new Weather Man and that Doru is no longer in charge. The minister is shocked and hangs up on her. Shae is left to ponder the challenges ahead of her and begins to review the clan's operations, determined to make a positive impact.
Hilo, the new Pillar of the No Peak clan, meets with his brothers, the Maik brothers, to discuss the clan's situation and the ongoing war with the Mountain clan. They report on the losses they've suffered, including the death of three Fists and eleven Fingers, and the loss of territory in the Docks area. Hilo is frustrated and angry, but he knows he needs to make strategic decisions to protect the clan. He tasks Tar with becoming his new Pillarman, a role that will involve important work behind the scenes. Hilo then meets with his sister, Shae, who is now the Weather Man, and they discuss the need for him to meet with the Royal Council to address their concerns about the war and its impact on the country. Shae advises Hilo to use the council to stall for time, allowing the clan to regroup and prepare for the next phase of the war. Hilo is hesitant, but ultimately agrees to meet with the council. The chapter ends with Hilo and Shae discussing their personal lives, including Shae's past relationship with a foreigner, Jerald, and Hilo's offer to kill him for her.
The chapter takes place at Kaul Dushuron Academy, where the annual Pre-Trials are being held. Anden, a year-eight student, is participating in the events, which include demonstrations of the six jade disciplines, as well as other competitive matches. Despite his initial lack of enthusiasm, Anden performs well, particularly in the Channeling event, where he showcases his skill in killing lab mice using his jade abilities. After the events, Anden is awarded the First of Class award, which comes with a single jade stud. He is congratulated by his classmates and instructors, including Grandmaster Le. However, tensions arise when Lott Jin, a classmate, makes disparaging comments about the Kaul family and the clan's prospects in the upcoming war. Anden confronts Lott, but their argument is interrupted by the arrival of Kaul Hilo, the new Pillar of the No Peak clan. Hilo speaks with Anden and his classmates, offering words of encouragement and advice on how to navigate the challenges of being a Green Bone. He also shares his own experiences and insights, including the importance of knowing how to discipline and motivate others. As the conversation comes to a close, Hilo presents Anden with the new jade stud, which he adds to Anden's training band. Anden is overjoyed and feels a sense of pride and connection to his family and clan. However, the chapter also touches on the risks and drawbacks of wearing jade, including the potential for it to "ruin" individuals who become too powerful or corrupt.
Tem Ben, a stone-eye and jade carver, is confronted by Maik Tar, a Green Bone and Fist of the No Peak clan. Maik has been tracking Tem, who is revealed to be a White Rat, a clan spy and operative, and has been buying and selling jade in No Peak territory. Tem is caught off guard and tries to defend himself, but Maik is too powerful and breaks his wrist and kneecaps. Maik then interrogates Tem, using a tape recorder to capture his confession, and demands to know about the Mountain clan's activities in No Peak territory, including where Tem sends the jade he obtains. Tem refuses to cooperate, and Maik decides to use torture to extract the information, choosing the "slow way" to make Tem talk.
Shae returns to the Kaul house late at night and is approached by her brother Hilo's fiancée, Wen, who invites her to have a cup of tea. Wen has renovated the Horn's residence and is eager to show it off. As they drink tea and talk, Shae realizes that Wen is more perceptive and intelligent than she had given her credit for. Wen expresses her desire to be useful to the clan and help win the war, despite being a stone-eye. She suggests that she could be a White Rat, a spy or smuggler, and asks Shae to consider giving her such a role. Shae is hesitant, knowing that Hilo would never approve of such a thing, but Wen's words strike a chord. Shae begins to see Wen in a new light and considers the possibility of working with her to help the clan, even if it means going against Hilo's wishes. The chapter ends with Shae leaving the Horn's house, feeling uneasy and unsure of what to do next.
Bero returns to the Goody Too, a store owned by Mudt, a fence who had previously double-crossed him. He finds the store boarded up and learns that Mudt is dead. Bero breaks into the store and discovers a hidden tunnel and a stash of shine, a valuable substance. As he is about to leave, he is confronted by Mudt's son, who is seeking revenge against Maik Tar, a Green Bone who killed his father. Bero decides to form an alliance with the younger Mudt, who is eager for revenge and willing to take risks. Bero reveals that he has killed a Green Bone before and proposes that they work together to acquire more jade and take down their enemies. The two teens form a partnership, united by their desire for power and revenge against the Green Bones.
The chapter describes a meeting between the leaders of the No Peak and Mountain clans, Kaul Hilo and Ayt Mada, at Wisdom Hall, mediated by the Royal Council. The meeting is tense, with both sides presenting their grievances and demands. Hilo is frustrated by the lack of progress and the superficiality of the discussions, feeling that the meeting is a waste of time. Ayt, on the other hand, seems more willing to play along, using her skills as a former Weather Man to present a polished and articulate front. Despite the tensions, both Pillars are aware that the meeting is a farce, and that the real issues between the clans will not be resolved through negotiation. The chapter ends with Hilo learning of the death of one of his Fists, Goun Jeru, and becoming enraged, but also receiving some positive news from his Pillarman, Maik Tar, which gives him a new perspective on the situation.
Kaul Hilo, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, meets with Chancellor Son Tomarho to discuss the clan's situation and the ongoing war with the Mountain clan. Hilo is direct and honest, warning Son that the clan needs the support of its Lantern Men and that Son must convince them to pay higher tributes to support the war effort. Son, who has been critical of Hilo, is forced to reconsider his stance and ultimately agrees to support Hilo. The meeting is a success, but Hilo's sister, Shae, is concerned that Hilo's approach may not be the most effective. Later, Hilo attends a meeting with the mediation committee, where he accuses Ayt Mada, the Pillar of the Mountain clan, of being a jade thief and smuggling jade on the black market. The meeting ends with Hilo storming out, and Ayt agrees to meet with him alone to discuss the situation. Shae arranges the meeting, choosing a neutral location, the Temple of Divine Return, and warns Ayt's Weather Man, Ree Tura, that Hilo will not be intimidated.
Shae meets with Ayt Mada, the Pillar of the Mountain clan, at a temple to discuss the ongoing war between their clans. Ayt reveals that she did not order the death of Kaul Lan, but rather wanted to send a message to him to avoid war. However, things did not go as planned, and Lan was killed. Ayt explains that she wants to unite the clans under one rule and believes that Shae, with her intelligence and ambition, could be a valuable ally. Ayt offers Shae the position of Weather Man in the Mountain clan, but Shae refuses, citing her loyalty to her family and clan. Ayt warns Shae that she will regret her decision and that the Mountain clan will stop at nothing to achieve their goals. The meeting ends with Ayt sweeping out of the temple, leaving Shae feeling strained and worried about the future of her clan and Kekon.
Hilo is furious with his sister Shae for convincing him to spare the life of Doru, the former Weather Man, who has now escaped and taken valuable information about the No Peak clan with him. Hilo's grandfather, Kaul Sen, reveals that he gave Doru his jade, allowing him to escape. Hilo is faced with the reality that the clan is struggling financially and may not be able to survive the war with the Mountain clan. Shae suggests that they need to find a way to gain more money and turn the street war around in their favor. Hilo is forced to consider the possibility that he may be outmatched and that the clan may not survive. He thinks about his own mortality and the potential extinction of his family's bloodline, but ultimately decides to focus on the present and plan for a way to bring down his enemies.
The chapter begins with Wen, Hilo's fiancée, traveling to Euman Island, a part of Kekon under Espenian control, with a secret mission for the No Peak clan. She is carrying a funeral urn containing a large quantity of raw Kekonese jade, which she plans to use as leverage to negotiate with the Espenians. Wen is stopped by a Mountain clan Finger at the ferry dock, but she successfully deceives him and boards the ferry. On the island, she meets with Colonel Deiller, the commanding officer of the Espenian military base, and reveals the jade, offering to establish a confidential arrangement to supply the Espenians with jade despite the suspension of official sales due to the clan war. Deiller is interested and decides to investigate further, calling in experts to verify the authenticity of the jade. The chapter ends with Deiller planning to make a call to General Saker in Adamont Capita to discuss the potential implications of a deal with the No Peak clan.
The chapter begins with the delivery of Lott Penshugon's severed head to the Kaul estate, which sparks Hilo's rage and frustration. Hilo and Maik Kehn visit Lott's family to pay their respects and offer funerary money. Hilo then receives a message from Gont Asch, the Horn of the Mountain clan, who demands Hilo's surrender in exchange for sparing the lives of No Peak's members. Hilo is torn between his desire for revenge and his responsibility to protect his clan. He visits Eiten, one of his Fists who was brutally maimed by Gont's men, and promises to avenge him. Hilo also reflects on his past and his relationships with his Fists, particularly the Maik brothers, and realizes that he has become a leader who values the lives of his men. The chapter ends with Hilo's somber realization that defeat may be inevitable, and he considers Gont's offer, weighing the cost of his own life against the potential fate of his clan.
The chapter takes place on New Year's Eve in Janloon, where preparations for the celebrations are muted due to the ongoing clan war between the No Peak and Mountain clans. Shae and Hilo, the new Pillar of the No Peak clan, sit alone in the courtyard of the Kaul house, discussing their situation and the impending war. Shae reflects on her past and her decisions, including her meeting with Ayt Mada, the Pillar of the Mountain clan, and her choice to support Hilo's plan to gamble everything to take down their enemies. Hilo reveals that he had suspected Ayt would try to convince Shae to kill him and that he had not been worried about it. The conversation turns to the topic of Lan's death, and Shae asks Hilo about the circumstances surrounding it. Hilo becomes emotional and reveals that Lan's death was not an accident, but rather a result of the Mountain clan's actions. He also reveals that Lan had been taking shine, a drug that allows non-Kekonese to wear jade, which had weakened him and contributed to his death. The chapter ends with Hilo's determination to take down the Mountain clan and avenge his brother's death, and Shae's acceptance of the situation and her role in it.
Hilo, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, marries his fiancée Wen in a small, intimate ceremony, as the clan war with the Mountain clan rages on. Despite the rushed and unconventional wedding, Hilo is happy to have Wen as his wife, and they share a romantic and intimate moment together. However, Hilo's duties as Pillar soon interrupt their happiness, and he must prepare to face the challenges ahead, knowing that his time with Wen may be limited. The chapter explores the complexities of Hilo's life as a jade warrior and his conflicting loyalties to his clan and his wife, as well as the difficulties of maintaining a personal life amidst the turmoil of the clan war.
Anden arrives at the Kaul house on New Year's Eve, where the family is gathered for a subdued dinner. The atmosphere is tense, with the clan war looming and the recent death of Lan still fresh in their minds. Hilo, the new Pillar, is determined to take down the Mountain clan and avenge his brother's death. Anden, who has just completed his Trials at the Kaul Dushuron Academy, is asked by Hilo to take an oath as a Green Bone of No Peak, making him a part of the clan and binding him to its code of honor. Anden agrees, reciting the oath and pledging his loyalty to Hilo and the clan. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, Hilo and Anden share a moment of solidarity, with Hilo acknowledging Anden as his brother-in-arms.
Kaul Hilo, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, arrives at the Twice Lucky restaurant to confront Gont Asch, the Horn of the Mountain clan. Hilo is accompanied by his cousin, Anden, who is there to witness the events and ensure Hilo's safety. Gont's men attack Hilo, but he fights back, taking down several of them. Despite being outnumbered, Hilo holds his own until Gont intervenes, and the two engage in a fierce battle. Hilo is severely injured, but he refuses to give up, and with Anden's help, he manages to turn the tables on Gont. Anden, who has been imbued with Hilo's jade energy, uses his newfound powers to defeat Gont and several of his men. In the end, both Hilo and Anden lie unconscious on the ground, surrounded by the bodies of their enemies.
Anden wakes up in the hospital after a five-day coma, recalling the intense battle where he killed Gont Asch, the Horn of the Mountain clan. He's struggling to come to terms with his newfound jade abilities and the craving for more. Hilo, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, visits him, revealing that Anden's actions have turned the war in their favor, but Ayt Mada, the Pillar of the Mountain clan, is not yet defeated. Anden confides in Hilo about his strange feelings, emptiness, and desire to experience the power of jade again. Hilo attributes Anden's condition to the stress of handling a large amount of jade for the first time and assures him that he'll recover with time and the help of controlled doses of SN1, a drug that allows non-Kekonese to wear jade. As Anden rests, he feels a mix of emotions, including resentment and envy towards Hilo, who possesses a large amount of jade and seems unaffected by it.
Anden, a graduate of Kaul Dushuron Academy, is set to receive his jade stones as a new Green Bone of the No Peak clan. However, in a shocking turn of events, he refuses to accept his jade, citing his concerns about becoming too powerful and enjoying killing too much. This decision sparks a heated argument with Hilo, the Pillar of the No Peak clan, who feels betrayed by Anden's refusal to wear jade and fulfill his duties as a Green Bone. Shae, Hilo's sister, intervenes, supporting Anden's decision and telling Hilo to stop pressuring him. Hilo, enraged, disowns Anden, telling him to leave the family and never come back. Anden, devastated, runs away from the scene, eventually finding himself at Lan's grave, where he breaks down in tears, apologizing for his actions. Shae later finds him and offers words of comfort, telling him that Lan would have been proud of him for making a difficult decision.
The chapter begins with Shae receiving a letter from Yun Dorupon, the former Weather Man, who reveals that he regrets betraying the clan's trust and warns Shae to be careful as the Mountain clan is not easily defeated. Shae burns the letter and vows to come after Dorupon. The scene then shifts to the Twice Lucky restaurant, where Shae and Hilo meet with their grandfather, Kaul Sen, and discuss the current state of the clan and the city. Hilo is still struggling with the aftermath of the war and the loss of his brother, Lan. Mr. Une, the owner of the Twice Lucky, arrives and presents Hilo with a small black box containing his left ear, a symbol of his apology for turning to the Mountain clan. Hilo accepts the apology and forgives Mr. Une, and the patrons of the restaurant begin to show their respect and loyalty to the clan. As the scene comes to a close, Shae and Hilo are left alone to discuss clan business, and Shae allows herself a sense of grim optimism, vowing that the Mountain clan's vision of one clan ruling Janloon will not come to pass.