21. Arcady: Cinders

Summary

• The chapter follows the main protagonist as they work on a plan with their group to steal Girazin's dragon-claw relic during an auction, with the protagonist intending to disguise themselves as a drakine and subdue a merchant and their guard.
• Throughout the planning process, the protagonist is tormented by memories of their deceased parents and their own guilt surrounding their deaths.
• The protagonist also battles with their feelings for Everen, who they share a mysterious and unexplained magical bond with.
• On the night of the operation, the protagonist enters a tavern to engage in a high-stakes card game and create a distraction.
• With Everen's help, the protagonist is able to win the game and touch the skin of a target named Dwell, thereby absorbing their form for later use.
• Upon winning, the protagonist is accused of cheating by Fox, a fellow player, but the dealer dismisses the accusation.
• The protagonist and Everen then exit the tavern, hearing footsteps following them, thus hinting at potential danger.