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The story revolves around Elspeth, a young woman infected with a magical disease that causes her veins to darken and grants her unique abilities. She is drawn into a complex web of alliances and rivalries between powerful families and factions vying for control of the kingdom. Elspeth's connection to the Nightmare, a dark presence in her mind, is revealed to be the soul of the Shepherd King, which she absorbed when she touched a powerful Providence Card. As Elspeth navigates the treacherous landscape of her world, she must confront her own degeneration and the danger it poses to those around her. She forms a bond with Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers, who is also infected and hiding secrets of his own. Together, they become embroiled in a plot to collect the Deck of Providence Cards, which hold the key to curing their infections and unlocking the secrets of their world. However, their efforts are thwarted by the King, his sons, and the Physicians, who seek to exploit the infected for their own gain. Throughout the story, Elspeth's relationships with her family, particularly her father and stepmother, are explored, as well as her connections to other characters, including her cousin Ione and the mysterious figure of the Shepherd King. The narrative builds towards a climactic confrontation between Elspeth and the forces of oppression, as she struggles to maintain control over her own body and mind in the face of her degeneration. Ultimately, Elspeth's transformation into a powerful and animalistic being, driven by the Shepherd King's soul, sets the stage for a dramatic and potentially deadly showdown.
The story begins with a description of an infection that causes a fever and darkens the blood in the veins. The protagonist, Elspeth, recalls the first time she encountered the Physicians, who wear white robes, when she was nine years old. She had been infected and her aunt had helped her escape by pushing her out of a window. Elspeth made her way to the woods, where she experienced a strange and unexplainable event that she cannot fully recall. Eleven years have passed since then, and Elspeth is now visiting her father's house on her nameday. She meets her half-sisters and stepmother, who are cold and distant towards her. Her father, Erik Spindle, is a complex figure who has a strained relationship with Elspeth. He gives her a bouquet of wildflowers, but their interaction is awkward. Elspeth's stepmother, Nerium, reveals that Elspeth's father wants her to attend the Equinox celebration, but Nerium is opposed to the idea. Elspeth decides to leave the house and walks to the old church on the outskirts of town, where she breaks down in tears. She is accompanied by a mysterious presence in her mind, known as the Nightmare, who offers her dark and sarcastic commentary on her situation. Throughout the chapter, Elspeth's thoughts and feelings are intertwined with the Nightmare's presence, suggesting a deep and complex connection between them.
The story delves into Elspeth's past, revealing the events that led to her infection and her connection to the mysterious presence known as the Nightmare. It began on a stormy night when Elspeth's father took her away from their home, and she awoke two days later in the care of her aunt Opal. As she recovered, Elspeth discovered she had a strange and unexplainable magic within her, which was triggered by her touch on a powerful Providence Card known as the Nightmare Card. This card allowed her to communicate with the Nightmare, a dark and enigmatic presence that has been with her for eleven years. The narrative then shifts to the present, where Elspeth is confronted by highwaymen while walking alone at night. With the Nightmare's help, she is able to defend herself and escape. As she reflects on the encounter, Elspeth realizes that the highwaymen may have been after her uncle's valuable Providence Cards, and she wonders if they discovered her secret: that she is infected with magic. The Nightmare's presence continues to be a source of both comfort and unease for Elspeth, as she navigates the dangers and complexities of her world.
The story continues with Elspeth's family receiving an invitation to the King's Equinox celebration, which her uncle plans to attend in hopes of settling their tax debt by presenting the valuable Nightmare Card. Elspeth is hesitant to attend due to her past experiences and the risk of her magical infection causing problems. Her aunt encourages her to go, citing the potential benefits of socializing and possibly reuniting with a past acquaintance, Alyx Laburnum. Meanwhile, Elspeth's uncle reveals that he acquired the Nightmare Card from a highwayman, but the details of the transaction remain unclear. As Elspeth prepares for the celebration, she has a dream in which she encounters a mysterious man in gold armor and later a creature with yellow eyes, who offers to tell her a story about a girl, a king, and a monster. The Nightmare's presence continues to influence Elspeth's thoughts and actions, as she navigates the complexities of her family's situation and her own uncertain future.
Elspeth attends the King's Equinox celebration with her family, where they hope to settle their tax debt by presenting the valuable Nightmare Card. As they make their way to the castle, Elspeth has a tense conversation with her cousin Ione, who reveals that their uncle plans to introduce her to Prince Hauth in exchange for the card. At the celebration, Elspeth meets Alyx Laburnum, a man from her past, and tries to avoid him. She also meets Emory Yew, the King's youngest nephew, who behaves strangely and makes her uncomfortable. After Emory's behavior becomes too much, he is intervened by his brother, Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers and Elspeth's father's successor. Ravyn shows Elspeth to her room, and despite their brief interaction, Elspeth is left feeling uneasy and wondering how Ravyn knew about Emory's behavior.
Elspeth wakes up to find her half-sisters, Dimia and Nya, in her room, inquiring about her encounter with Emory Yew. Her stepmother, Nerium, intervenes, warning Elspeth to avoid Emory due to his questionable behavior. Elspeth attends a walk in the gardens with the other women, where she searches for her cousin Ione and eventually finds her with a Maiden Card, a gift from Prince Hauth. Elspeth is concerned about the implications of the Card's magic and warns Ione not to use it, revealing her own fears about the Rowans' intentions. The conversation ends with Ione asserting her independence and walking away, leaving Elspeth feeling empty and heartbroken. Elspeth later encounters Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers, who possesses a second Nightmare Card, sparking Elspeth's dread and curiosity.
Elspeth has a tense encounter with Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers, who reveals that he possesses a Nightmare Card, identical to her uncle's. Ravyn questions Elspeth about her presence on the forest road at night, and she realizes that he is the same man she had previously assaulted. As they interact, Ravyn uses the Nightmare Card to enter Elspeth's mind, but she manages to hide her true thoughts and the presence of the Nightmare, a dark entity that resides within her. When Ravyn discovers Elspeth's infected veins, he shows concern and wonder, rather than fear or hatred. He offers to help her, and Elspeth cautiously agrees to follow him, but only if they avoid the garden and the women with their Providence Cards. As they navigate the misty surroundings, Elspeth remains wary of Ravyn's intentions, unsure if he is a genuine ally or a hidden threat. The Nightmare, sensing Elspeth's unease, continues to monitor Ravyn, referring to him as a "beast yet unknown".
Elspeth finds herself in a hidden cellar, accompanied by Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers, and his sister Jespyr, as well as a Physician named Filick. The Physician begins to question Elspeth about her magical abilities, and she reveals that she can see the colors of Providence Cards. Just as the conversation is progressing, Prince Renelm Rowan, also known as Elm, arrives at the cellar, carrying the powerful Scythe Card. Elspeth's instincts and the Nightmare's warnings make her wary of the Prince, and she becomes increasingly hostile as she realizes that Ravyn and Elm may be connected to the highwaymen who attacked her. The tension escalates as Elspeth demands that the Prince leave, threatening to remain silent if he doesn't comply.
Elspeth is subjected to a test by Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers, to determine the extent of her ability to see Providence Cards. Ravyn presents her with a series of Cards, including the White Eagle, Black Horse, Maiden, Chalice, and Prophet, and asks her to identify their colors while blindfolded. Elspeth successfully identifies the colors, demonstrating her unique ability. However, when Ravyn presents her with a fake Twin Alders Card, Elspeth sees through the deception, revealing that she is not only able to see the colors of the Cards but also aware of their authenticity. Elspeth proposes a deal to Ravyn, offering to help him find Providence Cards in exchange for his protection and secrecy about her magical infection. She also demands that he leave her family alone and not punish them for hiding her condition. Ravyn agrees to her terms, and Elspeth extracts a promise from him that he will never use the Nightmare Card on her again. Throughout the test, the Nightmare, a dark presence in Elspeth's mind, provides her with guidance and encouragement, helping her to navigate the complex and treacherous situation.
Elspeth attends the second feast of the Equinox celebration, where she is escorted by Prince Elm Rowan, but her interactions with him are strained and she is wary of his intentions. She soon finds herself at the center of attention when her uncle's gift of the Nightmare Card to the King is announced, and it is revealed that Ione Hawthorn, her cousin, is to be married to Prince Hauth Rowan. The news sparks shock and tension among the guests, including Ravyn Yew, who seems to be hiding his true feelings. Elspeth's own emotions are complicated, and she is unsure of how to react to the sudden turn of events. Meanwhile, the Nightmare, the dark presence in her mind, continues to offer its commentary and guidance, warning her to be cautious and alert to the dangers that surround her. As the evening wears on, Elspeth finds herself drawn into a complex web of alliances and rivalries, where the stakes are high and the consequences of her actions are far-reaching.
Elspeth attends the second feast of the Equinox celebration, where she witnesses her cousin Ione's transformation after using the Maiden Card. Elspeth's interactions with Prince Elm are strained, and she becomes increasingly wary of his intentions. She also discovers that Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers, possesses a second Nightmare Card, which sparks her dread and curiosity. As Elspeth navigates the complex web of alliances and rivalries, she demands that Ravyn tell her the truth about his actions and the council he mentions. Ravyn agrees to reveal more information, and they sneak away to his chamber, where he reveals a hidden panel containing the Mirror Card, a powerful and rare Providence Card. Elspeth is hesitant to use the Card, but Ravyn assures her it will help her avoid detection by the Physicians. As they make their way to a secret meeting, Elspeth encounters her stepmother, Nerium, who reveals her hatred and disdain for Elspeth's "infected" nature. Elspeth stands up to Nerium, revealing her knowledge of her father's lingering feelings for her mother. Eventually, Elspeth and Ravyn arrive at a hidden room, where a council of individuals, including Jespyr Yew, Elm Rowan, and Ravyn's parents, awaits her. The atmosphere is tense, and Elspeth is warned that the meeting will not be pleasant. With the Nightmare's presence guiding her, Elspeth prepares to face the council and uncover the truth about Ravyn's actions and the mysterious forces at play.
Elspeth is taken to a hidden cellar where she meets Ravyn's family, including his parents, Morette and Fenir Yew, and his cousin, Physician Willow. The group reveals that they are seeking Providence Cards, and Elspeth is presented with a test to gauge her honesty. She is given the option to choose from three Cards: the Scythe, the Chalice, or the Nightmare. Elspeth chooses the Scythe, which is used by Prince Elm to control her emotions and extract truthful responses from her. However, with the help of the Nightmare, a dark presence in her mind, Elspeth is able to break free from the Scythe's influence and respond cautiously to the group's questions. The group reveals that they are collecting the Deck of Cards to cure the infection that has plagued Blunder, and that they plan to use the blood of someone close to the King to unite the Deck. Elspeth agrees to help them find the lost Twin Alders Card in exchange for their help in curing her own infection.
Elspeth waits outside a cellar where a council is discussing her fate, and she decides to eavesdrop on their conversation. She learns that they plan to bring her to Castle Yew under the guise of a courtship with Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers. Ravyn agrees to the plan, despite his initial reluctance, and Elspeth is drawn into a complex web of alliances and rivalries. As she navigates this new situation, she begins to understand the true nature of the council's plans and the risks involved. Ravyn takes Elspeth to see his brother Emory, who is infected with magic and being kept captive by the King. Ravyn reveals that the King plans to use Emory's blood to unite the Deck of Providence Cards, and that they must collect the Cards themselves to save Emory. However, when they arrive at Emory's room, they find that he is gone, leaving Elspeth and Ravyn with more questions and uncertainty.
Elspeth and Ravyn's search for Emory, the King's youngest nephew, leads them to the garden, where they find him being harassed by two men with White Eagle Cards. Ravyn intervenes, using his Nightmare and Mirror Cards to defend his brother. Meanwhile, Elspeth learns that Emory's infection grants him the ability to read people's secrets with a single touch, but it has also taken a toll on his sanity. She also discovers that Ravyn is infected, a fact that he had kept hidden from her. As the night wears on, Elspeth finds herself drawn into a complex web of alliances and rivalries, with the King, his sons, and the Destriers all playing a role. The Nightmare, a dark presence in Elspeth's mind, continues to offer its commentary and guidance, helping her to navigate the treacherous situation.
Elspeth confronts Ravyn about his secrets and lies, discovering that he is infected with magic and has the unique ability to nullify the effects of Providence Cards when they touch his skin. However, he can still use certain Cards like the Mirror and Nightmare. As they argue, they are interrupted by Elspeth's half-sisters, and Ravyn suggests they pretend to be courting to avoid suspicion. They dance together, but the tension between them is palpable. After the dance, Elspeth storms off, and later encounters Emory, who quotes a passage from "The Old Book of Alders" that seems to reference Elspeth's connection to the Nightmare. Emory's behavior becomes increasingly erratic, and he eventually coughs up blood, leaving Elspeth shocked and concerned. The Nightmare, the dark presence in Elspeth's mind, offers its commentary and guidance throughout the scene, helping Elspeth navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries.
Elspeth travels to Castle Yew with the Yew family, leaving behind her aunt and uncle. She is exhausted and struggling to come to terms with the events that have transpired. Upon arrival, she is shown to her room by Ravyn, with whom she has a tense and awkward interaction. The next morning, Jespyr brings Elspeth a letter from her aunt, Opal, who expresses her worries about Elspeth's safety and the changes that are taking place in their lives. Elspeth confides in Jespyr about her own worries and fears, and they bond over their shared concerns. Jespyr then invites Elspeth to join her for tea with the Pine family, who may possess an Iron Gate Card that the Yews are seeking. Elspeth agrees to attend, despite her initial reservations, and the Nightmare, the dark presence in her mind, is skeptical of the plan but resigned to playing along.
Elspeth attends a tea gathering with the Pine women, where she attempts to extract information about the Iron Gate Card. She successfully learns that Wayland Pine possesses the Card and plans to travel home the next day. After the gathering, Elspeth returns to Castle Yew, where she meets with Fenir Yew and discusses the plan to retrieve the Iron Gate Card. Fenir reveals that they intend to use the blood of Orithe Willow, the head of the King's Physicians, to unite the Deck of Providence Cards. Elspeth is shocked to learn that Orithe is infected and has been using his magic to hunt and bleed others suspected of having the infection. The Yews show Elspeth their collection of Providence Cards, and she notices that three Cards are missing: the Well, the Iron Gate, and the Twin Alders. Elspeth reveals that she knows someone who owns a Well Card, and the Nightmare in her mind encourages her to share this information with the Yews.
Elspeth spends time in the garden of Castle Yew, where she encounters Ravyn, the Captain of the Destriers. He finds her in the garden and they share a moment of tension and awkwardness, but also a sense of connection. Ravyn gives Elspeth a rose and offers to show her the ruins of the old castle, where they discuss the rumors of the place being haunted. The Nightmare, a dark presence in Elspeth's mind, is drawn to a mysterious stone chamber in the ruins, but Elspeth resists its urging to explore it. Ravyn reveals that he uses the Mirror Card to become invisible and that the Nightmare Card affects him by taunting him with his own fears. Elspeth and Ravyn then prepare to intercept Wayland Pine's carriage on the forest road to steal the Iron Gate Card, and Ravyn takes Elspeth to the armory to choose a weapon for protection. There, they meet with a group of individuals, including Jespyr, Prince Renelm, and others, who are all dressed in blackened leather and appear to be a group of highwaymen.
Elspeth prepares to intercept Wayland Pine's carriage with a group of individuals, including Ravyn, Elm, and Jespyr, who are all dressed in blackened leather and appear to be a group of highwaymen. She struggles with wearing men's clothing and riding a horse, but with Ravyn's help, she eventually mounts the horse. As they enter the Black Forest, they use charms to ward off the Spirit of the Wood, and Ravyn leads the group through the dense mist. They wait in hiding for Pine's carriage to pass, and when it does, they plan to halt it and steal the Iron Gate Card. Elspeth is given a knife and a mask to wear, and she is apprehensive about the plan. However, when Ravyn apologizes for his past behavior and shows a more vulnerable side, Elspeth forgives him and they share a moment of connection. As they prepare to ambush the carriage, Elspeth puts on the mask and they wait for the signal to attack.
Elspeth and Ravyn's plan to steal the Iron Gate Card from Wayland Pine's carriage is set in motion, but things quickly go awry as they are met with resistance from the Destriers and Prince Hauth Rowan. Elspeth's father, Erik Spindle, appears and engages in a fierce battle with Elm, but Elspeth intervenes, using the Nightmare's strength to overpower her father. As the chaos ensues, Elspeth becomes separated from the group and finds herself face to face with Hauth, who breaks her wrist. She manages to escape and eventually reunites with Ravyn and the others, who have successfully obtained the Iron Gate Card. However, Jespyr's loss of her charm puts her in danger, and Ravyn must use his own charm to save her. The group eventually regroups, and Ravyn reveals that he has obtained the Iron Gate Card, but not without sustaining injuries and encountering unexpected obstacles. Elspeth's actions have also drawn attention to herself, and she must now confront the consequences of her decisions.
Elspeth returns to Castle Yew after a long and eventful night, struggling with the physical and emotional aftermath of her encounter with the Destriers and Prince Hauth Rowan. She is met with a surprise visit from her cousin Ione, who has undergone a transformation after using the Maiden Card, making her almost unrecognizable. Ione's new beauty and demeanor are unsettling, and Elspeth is unsure how to react to her cousin's changed behavior. Meanwhile, Ravyn Yew continues to be a source of intrigue and tension for Elspeth, as they engage in a delicate dance of courtship and deception. As the day unfolds, Elspeth must navigate the complex web of relationships and alliances within the castle, all while keeping her own secrets and fears hidden. The Nightmare, the dark presence in her mind, remains a constant and mysterious companion, offering cryptic commentary and guidance as Elspeth navigates the treacherous landscape of her world.
Elspeth navigates the complex web of relationships and alliances within Castle Yew, where she encounters her cousin Ione, who has undergone a transformation after using the Maiden Card. Ione's new demeanor is unsettling, and Elspeth is unsure how to react to her cousin's changed behavior. Meanwhile, Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers, engages in a tense training session with his cousin, Hauth Rowan, the High Prince, who is still recovering from the injuries he sustained during the ambush in the Black Forest. As the training session escalates, Ravyn breaks Hauth's hand, sparking a violent outburst from the High Prince. Later, Elspeth overhears a conversation between Ravyn and his cousin, Elm, in which they discuss Elspeth's abilities and the events that transpired in the wood. Ravyn refuses to use his Nightmare Card on Elspeth, citing her lack of consent, and the conversation ends with Elm warning Ravyn not to let his guard down around her. Ravyn then visits Elspeth in her room, apologizing for the events of the day and hinting that he wants to show her something, but the nature of what he wants to reveal is left unclear.
Elspeth follows Ravyn to a mysterious stone chamber in the ruins of an ancient castle, where he reveals a hidden compartment containing Providence Cards. The chamber can only be unlocked with infected blood, and Ravyn explains that he discovered this secret as a child. As they interact, Elspeth and Ravyn share a romantic moment, and they kiss. However, their intimacy is interrupted by a vision of a man in gold armor, who sits atop the stone and demands to be let out. Elspeth recognizes the man from her dreams and flees the chamber, feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what is happening to her. Later, she realizes that the man is the Shepherd King, and that she may have absorbed his soul when she touched the Nightmare Card. The Nightmare, a presence in her mind, confirms this revelation, and Elspeth is left to grapple with the implications of this discovery.
Elspeth wakes up in a meadow, disoriented and cold, with no memory of how she got there. She is found by Filick Willow, a Physician and ally of Ravyn Yew, who takes her in and tends to her wounded wrist. As they talk, Elspeth learns more about the history of Blunder and the origins of the Providence Cards. Filick shares his theory that the Spirit of the Wood tricked the Shepherd King into giving up the Twin Alders Card, which is necessary to lift the mist that surrounds Blunder. Elspeth also begins to understand the nature of her own infection and the degeneration that comes with it. She realizes that her connection to the Nightmare, a dark presence in her mind, is growing stronger and that she may be losing control. Determined to free herself from the Nightmare's influence and cure her infection, Elspeth sets her sights on finding the remaining Providence Cards. Meanwhile, the Destriers are preparing to head out to Market Day, and Elspeth is warned to wear her colors, hinting at a larger conflict to come.
Elspeth attends Market Day with the Yew family, where she is forced to navigate the complexities of her relationships and alliances. She encounters her half-sisters, who are suspicious of her relationship with Ravyn, and her father, who is haunted by the past. Ravyn reveals his true feelings to Elspeth, and they share a moment of intimacy, but their happiness is short-lived as they are interrupted by the arrival of Elspeth's family. Meanwhile, the Nightmare, a dark presence in Elspeth's mind, continues to exert its influence, warning her of the dangers that surround her. As the day wears on, Elspeth becomes increasingly entangled in a web of secrets and lies, and she must confront the truth about her past and her connections to the mysterious forces at play. The scene ends with a sense of foreboding as the Destriers arrive to make an example of an infected child and their parents, leaving Elspeth feeling helpless and trapped.
Elspeth witnesses a brutal public punishment where a man and woman are sentenced to death for hiding their infected child. The child is forced to watch as his parents are led into the mist, and Elspeth decides to intervene, using her connection to the Nightmare to overpower the Physicians and rescue the boy. As they flee into the mist, they are pursued by a Destrier, Linden, and Elspeth is forced to fight him off. In the heat of the moment, she loses control and the Nightmare takes over, causing her to brutally attack Linden. Ravyn arrives just in time to stop her and calm her down, but not before she realizes the true extent of her infection and the danger it poses to those around her. As Ravyn tries to comfort her, Elspeth's eyes turn yellow, and she begs the Nightmare to leave her alone, aware that she is losing control to its influence.
Elspeth and Ravyn return to the scene of the public punishment, where Elspeth had intervened to save an infected child. Ravyn takes charge, reprimanding his cousin Hauth for calling for the execution without his leave. The Destriers affirm their loyalty to Ravyn, and he orders them to be vigilant and inspect anyone entering the gates. As they leave the scene, Ravyn reveals that he has a place for infected children like the one Elspeth saved, and that collecting the Deck of Providence Cards is crucial to their plan. Meanwhile, Elm is struggling with the aftermath of using the Scythe Card, and Ravyn receives a message from his father, prompting them to rush back to Castle Yew. Upon arrival, they learn that Emory, the King's youngest nephew, has escaped from Stone and sneaked into the castle, putting himself in danger of being discovered by Orithe, the head of the King's Physicians.
Elspeth returns to Castle Yew with Ravyn and his family, where they tend to Emory, who has escaped from Stone and is struggling with the effects of his infection. As they care for Emory, Elspeth learns more about the Yew family's history and their connection to the Shepherd King. She also shares a romantic moment with Ravyn, and they eventually give in to their desires, spending the night together in Ravyn's room. Meanwhile, Elm expresses his distrust of Elspeth and her magic, and Ravyn reveals that he trusts her, but their relationship is put to the test as they navigate the complexities of their world and the dangers that surround them. As Elspeth and Ravyn grow closer, they must confront the secrets and lies that have been hidden for so long, and Elspeth must come to terms with her own degeneration and the fate that awaits her.
Elspeth navigates the complexities of her relationships and alliances within Castle Yew, while also dealing with the secrets and lies that surround her. She shares a romantic moment with Ravyn, but their happiness is short-lived as they prepare to say goodbye to Emory, who must return to the King's castle. Elspeth asks Emory to use his magic to touch her and reveal more about the mysterious forces at play, and he sees a dark creature curled around her spine, warning her that she doesn't have much time before it takes her over. Emory also reveals a cryptic message that seems to reference the Shepherd King and the Spirit of the Wood, leaving Elspeth with more questions and fears about her own degeneration and the fate that awaits her. As Emory departs, Elspeth is left to grapple with the implications of what she has learned, and the Nightmare's presence in her mind continues to exert its influence, warning her to be wary and clever.
Elspeth wakes up from a disturbing dream, finding herself in a state of disarray, with dirt and blood on her hands. She tries to clean herself up, but the Nightmare, a dark presence in her mind, continues to exert its influence, warning her of impending danger. As she prepares to attend her half-sisters' nameday celebration at Spindle House, she is determined to steal her father's Well Card, a crucial piece in her plan to cure her infection. At the celebration, Elspeth is accompanied by Ravyn, Jespyr, and Elm, and they are greeted by the King and his court. The atmosphere is tense, and Elspeth's thoughts are consumed by the Nightmare's ominous warnings and her own dark intentions. As the night wears on, Elspeth becomes increasingly entangled in a web of secrets and lies, and she must navigate the complex alliances and rivalries that surround her.
Elspeth and her companions, including Ravyn, Jespyr, and Elm, are searching for the Well Card at Spindle House during her half-sisters' nameday celebration. They split up to cover more ground, with Elspeth and Elm searching the library and guest rooms. Along the way, they encounter Elspeth's father's steward, Balian, who is surprised to see Elspeth with the Prince. Elm uses his Scythe Card to manipulate Balian, causing him to bow to Elspeth. As they continue their search, Elspeth and Elm discuss their motivations and the risks they are taking. Elspeth reveals that she would do anything to protect someone she cares about, and Elm expresses his concerns about Ravyn's trust in her. Meanwhile, Ione, Elspeth's cousin, appears and invites them to join her in the great hall for a toast. However, things take a dark turn when Elm discovers that Ione has been manipulated by a Scythe Card, and Hauth Rowan reveals that he has spiked their wine with a truth serum, using the Chalice Card. The chapter ends with Elspeth realizing that she and her companions have been tricked into drinking the serum, which will force them to tell the truth.
Elspeth and her companions are forced to play a game with Hauth Rowan, who uses the Chalice Card to extract truth from them. The game becomes increasingly tense and revealing, with each person's secrets and lies exposed. Elspeth is particularly vulnerable, as she is forced to answer questions about her past and her relationships. When Hauth asks her about her arm, she tries to lie, but the Chalice's magic prevents her from doing so. Ravyn tries to help her by entering her mind, but she rejects his attempt, and the Nightmare intervenes, forcing Ravyn out. As the game reaches its climax, Elspeth's body begins to react to the Chalice's poison, and she starts to vomit blood. The chapter ends with Elspeth's health in jeopardy, and her companions rushing to her aid.
Elspeth wakes up in her childhood bed at Spindle House, recovering from the effects of the Chalice's poison. Ravyn Yew is by her side, and they are soon joined by Elm, who is concerned about Elspeth's health. As they talk, Elspeth reveals the truth about her connection to the Nightmare, a dark presence in her mind that is actually the soul of the Shepherd King. She explains that she absorbed the King's soul when she touched her uncle's Nightmare Card, and that the Nightmare has been guiding and protecting her ever since. Ravyn is shocked and struggles to understand the implications of Elspeth's secret. As they discuss the situation, the King summons them to a meeting, and Ravyn must leave Elspeth's side. Before he goes, Elspeth's father, Erik Spindle, visits her and gives her the Well Card, a powerful Providence Card that he had been keeping safe. Elspeth is touched by her father's gesture and feels a sense of hope and connection to him. As Ravyn prepares to leave, Elspeth whispers a message to him, urging him to be safe, unaware that their time together is limited.
Elspeth is recovering from the effects of the Chalice's poison at Spindle House when her uncle arrives, acting strangely and under the influence of Hauth Rowan's Scythe Card. He brings Elspeth to her room, where Hauth is waiting, and locks her in with him. Hauth reveals that he knows Elspeth is infected and has been working with her uncle to uncover the truth. He wants Elspeth to help him take down Ravyn Yew, the Captain of the Destriers, and demands that she cooperate in exchange for her life and Ravyn's. When Elspeth refuses, Hauth becomes violent, and she is forced to call upon the Nightmare for help. With the Nightmare's strength, Elspeth manages to free herself from her restraints, but not before Hauth's ally, Orithe Willow, arrives with a metal claw, setting the stage for a intense and potentially deadly confrontation.
Elspeth is being held captive by Hauth and Orithe, who have discovered her magical infection. As they prepare to take her to the King, Elspeth uses the Nightmare's strength to break free and attack her captors. Despite being injured and weakened, she manages to overpower Hauth and kill Orithe with his own bladed glove. As the Nightmare takes control, Elspeth's body undergoes a transformation, her eyes turning yellow and her movements becoming animalistic and powerful. With her last ounce of strength, she strikes down Hauth and then succumbs to her degeneration, her mind filled with visions of the past and the future. The Nightmare promises to help Ravyn and Emory before Elspeth's consciousness fades away, leaving behind a trail of destruction and chaos.
Elspeth, now fully consumed by the Shepherd King's soul, is being held in a dungeon cell by King Rowan and the Destriers. The King is furious with her for killing his Physician and maiming his son, but Elspeth remains calm and collected, offering to help the King find the last Providence Card, the Twin Alders, in exchange for the release of Emory Yew. The King is skeptical, but Elspeth's words are laced with a sinister tone, hinting that she has knowledge of the Card's location and is willing to trade her life for Emory's freedom. Ravyn, who is present during the exchange, is desperate to reach out to Elspeth, but the Shepherd King's presence blocks him out. The King ultimately agrees to consider Elspeth's offer, and the scene ends with Elspeth's ominous warning that she will find the Twin Alders, as she is the one who left it in a place of great sorrow and bloodshed.