Chapter 73 (Chapter Seventy-Two): The Dragon’s True Identity
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Romeria, carried by the dragon Caindra, flies over the approaching armies of Bellcross and Atticus. She realizes Zander’s allies have answered the call and that fresh fighters will arrive at the rift within hours. Caindra then lands in an empty field and transforms into Bexley, the brothel owner. Romeria is shocked to learn that Bexley is actually the dragon. Bexley explains that she took mortal form to hide and that with the return of the nymphs, shifting becomes more painful and temporary. She reveals her plan to be at the rift during the Hudem full moon to steer away the worst creatures, but Romeria and the casters must handle the rest. Romeria asks if Atticus knew Bexley’s true nature; he did not. When Romeria questions whether Bexley will remain an ally, Bexley calls her “the Queen for All” and implies that is answer enough. Bexley then transforms back into Caindra, and they return to the army.
Key Events
- Romeria sees Bellcross’s army flying south, confirming allies are approaching the rift.
- She spots a second army under Atticus’s green-and-gold banner, also heading north.
- Caindra lands in an empty field and transforms into Bexley, revealing her dragon identity.
- Bexley explains that shifting back to dragon form becomes harder as nymphs return.
- She tells Romeria that creatures will emerge from the Nulling more randomly than in the past, but she will steer the worst ones away during the full moon.
- Romeria learns that Malachi is a fate and will find a different path out of the Nulling.
- Bexley confirms Atticus never knew she was a dragon.
- Bexley calls Romeria “the Queen for All” and implies her alliance continues.
Character Development
- Romeria: She demonstrates growing trust in her dragon ally and accepts the massive revelation with calmness. Her question about Atticus shows she still views him as a nemesis. She ends the chapter with renewed resolve.
- Bexley (Caindra): This chapter fully reveals her dual nature as both dragon and brothel owner. She shows wisdom, age, and a sense of duty. Her sadness about Romeria possibly never telling Atticus the truth hints at future loss.
- Atticus (mentioned): Though not present, his ignorance of Bexley’s true form is confirmed, adding irony to their past relationship.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Hidden identities and revelation: The chapter’s central surprise is Bexley’s true nature as the dragon. The theme of hidden power running deep in Islor recurs.
- The cost of transformation: Bexley’s pain when shifting from human to dragon symbolizes the sacrifice involved in returning to one’s true form.
- The Queen for All: Romeria’s title is spoken directly, reinforcing the motif of unity and her role in the coming conflict.
- The inevitability of fate: Malachi’s mention as a fate who will find his own path underscores the theme that some events cannot be stopped.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter delivers a massive revelation about Bexley’s identity, reshaping the reader’s understanding of a character who has been present since nearly the beginning. It also sets the stage for the battle at the Nulling, clarifying the forces arrayed against the approaching creatures. Bexley’s promise to steer away the worst threats gives Romeria and the allies a fighting chance, while the mention of Malachi as a fate raises the stakes for future confrontations. The chapter deepens the lore of the ancient world and cements Romeria’s role as the Queen for All.
Study Questions
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What does Bexley reveal about her true identity and her relationship with Atticus? Answer: Bexley reveals she is the dragon Caindra. She had taken the form of a mortal brothel owner in Cirilea. She confirms that Atticus never knew she was a dragon, meaning he unknowingly consorted with an ancient creature.
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Why does Bexley say she cannot stay in her human form much longer? Answer: Bexley explains that with the return of the nymphs, the transition between dragon and human becomes increasingly painful and difficult each time. After this conversation, her bones ache and will until she returns to her primary dragon body.
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What role does Bexley play in the coming battle at the Nulling rift? Answer: Bexley intends to be at the rift during the height of Hudem’s full moon. She will use her dragon form to steer away the worst of the creatures that emerge, but she tells Romeria that she and the king and the casters must handle the rest.