Thomasyn’s mercy killing of Jon does not end Jon’s suffering. When Thomasyn reflexively breaks the chain of his protective amulet, Jon’s soul and Danton’s enter him. Thomasyn recovers Danton’s ordinary sword and blood-magic ring, ignores Pin’s warning, and wears the ring. The ring suppresses Jon’s ability to resist Danton’s influence, but Jon remains conscious and able to communicate.

On the road to the Capital, the Spears confront three child-abducting witches near the Town of Lands. They learn that a corrupt councillor has blocked returning Spears from the Capital after bargaining with an Elven diplomat. Pin’s disguise enables the party to pass the gates, Tess helps them reach Chail, and Papion destroys Danton’s ring. Jon regains his ability to push back against Danton’s influence, but neither soul leaves Thomasyn.

Thomasyn and the loyal Spears rescue King Darious and his younger brother. The councillor’s betrayal is exposed; Thomasyn independently executes him. As Elven forces land southwest of the Capital, Darious orders Thomasyn to save the Realm by any means necessary. Thomasyn proposes a duel with the Elven commander, who accepts. Danton briefly seizes Thomasyn’s body during the fight, leaving him badly wounded, but Thomasyn regains control and wins. The Elves withdraw.

Thomasyn chooses Papion’s perilous ceremony to remove the souls. Jon consents; Danton resists. The ceremony succeeds in separating them, but accidentally damages Thomasyn’s soul, preventing his duel wound from healing. Thomasyn dies after forgiving Papion. The Realm mourns him, then slowly rebuilds. Roughly a year after his funeral, Darious marries Sandra, who has retired as a Spear, and Bethany carries the training legacy forward.