ToP Chapter 27

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Scented Waters

Meliu arrives in Bdein, overwhelmed by its sprawling brownstone walls and chaotic streets, a stark contrast to her rural upbringing and Istinjoln’s tunnels. Disguised as a merchant’s daughter, she navigates the city’s sensory overload—crowded, perfumed, and pungent—while low on funds, her songs risky to spend and gems reserved for desperation. Seeking a bath to blend in, she sneaks into a stable for the night, then visits the luxurious Raspberry and Rose inn, exchanging a song for crowns and indulging in a lilac-scented bath and lavish breakfast, restoring her confidence. A confrontation with a shopkeeper abusing his daughter stirs memories of her own abusive father, prompting Meliu to impulsively poison his mug with Ulrikt’s vial, hoping to test its effects without killing him. Regretting her act, she lingers, relieved when he shows no immediate harm, but leaves the girl behind, refocusing on her mission to rescue Ivin. Approaching the fortress-like Tower of Markuun, Meliu recalls Ulrikt’s words about Hidreng prisoners in high cells, suspecting Ivin is held aloft. Posing as Inis, she enters the Temple of the Virgin Moon, claiming to pray for her aunt to the Sect of Gabon. A curious Hidreng, Loduma of Ar-Bdein, engages her, hinting at his own dark past while she prays at a statue to maintain her cover. As night falls, Meliu lies prostrate, biding time for darkness to infiltrate the tower, her resolve tested by guilt over the poison and the daunting task of freeing Ivin from a heavily guarded fortress in a city where her faith marks her as an enemy.

• ToP Chapter 26 — Skyward Prison
• ToP Chapter 28 — Bruised Conversation
• Trail of Pyres - Main Chapter Listing