After the battles, Arian deliberates on the fates of his captives. He takes steps to ensure compliance with the Nehemian Code in dispensing justice to the surviving aggressors. Meanwhile, Parsifal, while visiting Kilani, stumbles on Glenore. However, her condition renders a meeting with Arian futile. Realizing Glenore was beyond reach, Arian finds scant comfort in the discovery of his children. Dutifully, he focuses on completing plans for the Feast of the Sephracals where the mighty of their world will assemble. Despite his internal turmoil, Arian the Magnificent, now General of the Hosts of Nehemia and Zennara, draws closer to Anika. When ancient curses finally abate, he rises beyond his predicament. Eventually, he embraces his long journey into light the only way he knows: Arian's way.