A Reaper at the Gates

Helene and Harper reach Antium after 13 days and find Livia weakened after being poisoned. Livia’s guard, Faris, explains the tasters did not detect the poison because it is slow acting. Livia’s baby was not harmed. Helene suspects Keris of the attack.

Helene orders her ladies-in-waiting out of Livia’s room. Once the doors are locked, the Nightbringer reveals himself, explaining he kept Livia in stasis so Helene could heal her. Helene asks why he’s helping her, and he answers she has something he wants. What the Nightbringer wants from Helene can only be given in trust. When Helene says she will never trust him, the Nightbringer warns her of a time when he will be her only hope.

Helene heals Livia, but struggles to heal the baby, whom she doesn’t know. The Nightbringer asks Helene what she desire for the baby, but to choose carefully, since her wish will irrevocably tie the baby and herself together. Helene is glad since he is family. Helene includes admirable aspects from different people into the baby’s healing song. Once the baby is healed, the Nightbringer tells Helene to rest. Marcus enters, surprised to see Helene’s healing abilities; he does not appreciate her keeping secrets from him.