Curse of Shadows and Thorns

Elise is shocked by the way everyone in her family seems to disregard the attack of the previous night, not caring that one of their guards died in battle. Instead, they focus on Elise’s betrothal. She is exhausted after two suitors visit, but she is pleasantly surprised when Jarl comes and checks on her.

Elise asks him directly why Jarl is seeking her hand, and he admits that he admires her and the way she thinks for herself. Elise is somewhat disheartened when Jarl brings up his ambitions for changing New Timoran, but she is surprised when she hears he disagrees with the king about what they are doing with fury. Jarl thinks the Timorans—who don’t possess fury like the Ettans or fae—should find a way to utilize it rather than to combat it and hide it away. Like Elise, he believes there should be unity between Timorans, Ettans, and Night Folk. Jarl mentions that Prince Calder, who is next in line for the throne, agrees about the use of fury.

Mavie finds Elise and tells her that Legion has returned. She leaves Jarl with a promise that she wants to see him again soon.