
As the group processes their dismissal, they debate their next move. They talk to a few other dismissed members, most considering to seek new employment. While Ginny tends to the wild foxes, Alaric and Ginny visit Ruby. She's clearing out the kitchen tent.
The conversation shifts to Henry, who is now suspected of murder. Alaric and Arvin inform Ruby that they are going on a mission to arrest him. Ruby reacts with concern for their safety and, before parting, gives the group a small chest containing healing potions.
Alaric and Arvin meet with Karjar, who's furious about his dismissal, while his brother is more disappointed than angry. Alaric and Arvin notice that Councilmember Victoria brought three scholars and a human mercenary clad in red armor. The scholars are a strange bunch. A birdfolk with elaborate golden engravings, and two foxfolk with striking black-and-white fur. These strangers pique the group’s interest.

Victoria summons the group and introduces them to Professors Orso, Tana, and Judith, scholars who have been investigating Henry’s misdeeds. Among the group is also a human who introduces herself as Mallow. The group and the scholars discuss the situation, Henry is now protected by a powerful magical barrier surrounding Fallowbrae Castle. Disabling it will require either a high-level dispel or tricking Henry into deactivating it himself. Victoria proposes a nighttime journey using Phantom Steeds.
The group deliberates tactics, debating how to restrain Henry and prevent him from using magic. Judith suggests blinding and gagging him as a precaution. At the same time, another pressing concern emerges—Ginny's acquired owl bear egg. If it hatches, it could become a major threat, leading Tana to suggest keeping it in temporary stasis in her care.
Meanwhile, an examination of the armor worn by the owl bears reveals it to be ancient, bearing strange inscriptions. Tana notes its unusual properties—one of which appears to slow the aging process. Victoria also reveals a major incentive for the three: 1000 gold per person for capturing Henry. However, she warns that he is should be treated as a dangerous threat—he can sense anything that enters the protective bubble.
...
The group visit Kane's tent, but here they face more political fallout. Kane, their former Pack leader, is stripped of his Exemplar title and reassigned to another pack. His demotion linked to his romantic relationship with Riven, a relationship that defies Wolffolk traditions. Kane upset by Ginny's remarks about 'talking out their relationship problems' causes him to dismiss the three out of his tent, even shouting at them as they stand outside.
Riven, who also got fired, is cleaning up his tent. Riven entrusts Alaric with a small box that belonged to Cedric, seemingly he left it behind. The box containing scrolls, a brilliant blue gemstone, and a hand-drawn portrait of a white-haired woman, though its significance remains unknown.


Seeking supplies, Ginny visits her father, a potion crafter, providing her with anti-poison, anti-paralysis, and an experimental blue potion. As an additional safeguard, he gifts Ginny a vial of "dust of disappearance powder."
At the Breakers Tavern, Alaric makes a keen observation, a growing divide among the Tavern's patrons. Wolffolk sit apart from the others. The group notice that there's a high-ranking harefolk in green armor in the tavern, and seems that some kind of deal is being made with dismissed Voidbreakers. Whispers of a "new job" reach Alaric’s ears, but the full nature of the transaction remains unclear.
Returning to the camp, the group gathers for a campfire with Ruby, Corrin, Charon and Belinda. A hearty stew provides some comfort, but the conversation remains heavy. Kane’s demotion is brought up, prompting a discussion on the role of tradition and the Wolffolk's deep-seated prejudices. Charon mentions that he talked to Amaroq, who learned that the band Harmonic Defiance was forced to quit by the Wolffolk elders.
As the night progresses, personal relationships come to the forefront. Ruby encourages Alaric to speak with Kane, leading to a conversation about duty, his feelings for Riven, and the risks of defying expectations. Meanwhile Ruby does the same with Riven, the pair ultimately able to persuade the two men to talk to each other. After that, Alaric shares a quiet, romantic moment with Ruby, eating marshmallows at separate campfire.

Meanwhile, discussions of the future take shape. Charon mentions that Amaroq considered him as a personal chef, while Ginny considers that the 1000 gold of this assignment could help her and her father to start over. Arvin also wonders what he should do with the 1,000 gold reward, but he doesn't know yet.
Towards midnight, the group reconvenes with Victoria and her crew. With Henry’s capture looming, they must prepare for whatever might come, even battle. The upcoming days will be be far more eventful, and the group braces for the challenges ahead.