Summary

Vaedan decides to confront Uni despite the Ayin’s code against crossing into Strig territory. He finds her on the beach and accuses her of corrupting the forest. Though Uni denies involvement, she offers to help him find the source of the decay. Reluctantly, Vaedan agrees to let her help but firmly forbids her from using magic. Together they navigate through the forest to find the decay.

Analysis

Vaedan and Uni’s partnership deepens as they face escalating challenges in the forest. These chapters showcase their individual strengths—Vaedan’s pragmatism and Uni’s ingenuity—but also reveal their vulnerabilities. The corruption becomes more tangible, symbolizing not just the forest’s decay but also the fragility of their partnership. Vaedan’s inner conflict intensifies as Uni begins to challenge his understanding of the world and his feelings.

Discussion Question 1

Discussion Question 2

Discussion Question 3