Summary

In Chapter 21, “A Quiet Breath,” Justine's condition has worsened dramatically. It is clear she is about to die. When she takes her final breath, Owen knows she has died but can feel her presence in the room. He can imagine the scene when he was born. He was stillborn and Ankarette, serving as the midwife, breathed life back into him. Owen leans close, says the word “Nesh-ama,” which translates to “Breathe” (Location 2429), and kisses Justine's mouth. Justine wakes but Owen, drained, collapses. When Owen wakes, he is so weak he can barely open his eyes. He hears someone moving in the darkened room and knows it is probably the person who poisoned the picnic lunch.

In Chapter 22, “Betrayed,” Owen believes that Justine is in another bed in the room and feels helpless to try to defend them. He speaks out and Bothwell replies...