The Forest of Hands and Teeth

The week of Brethlaw begins as the village celebrates the upcoming Vows of Eternal Constancy between Harry and Mary and between Cass and Travis. On the night before the Vows, each couple will complete the Binding ceremony, in which a white braided cord binds their hands. Their first night alone together will also be their last chance to cut the cord and reject the vows. Halfway through the week, Mary tires of well-wishers and gatherings and escapes to the top of the hill, where Travis is. Together, they discuss their belief that the world holds more than just the village.

Suddenly, Mary sees an Unconsecrated—a young woman in a bright vest—and recognizes her as Gabrielle. However, Gabrielle moves very quickly and adeptly, not clumsily and slowly like other Unconsecrated. Mary tries to tell Travis who Gabrielle is. She asks him if he heard Gabrielle say anything when he was in the Cathedral. He says, “Oh, Mary,” and kisses her in reply. Mary is overjoyed, convinced that Travis will come for her. She leaves to tell the Guardians about Gabrielle.