Chapter 38 Summary: Raihn's Departure and the Weight of Vows
⚠️ 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
Raihn reads a letter from Vale reporting that minor Rishan nobles near Sivrinaj are refusing to send troops and actively undermining Vale’s efforts. Raihn suspects Simon Vasarus is behind the unrest. He decides to leave immediately to deal with the rebellion, planning to travel alone and send Oraya later with Ketura and Mische.
Mische confronts Raihn about the moment of intimacy she witnessed between him and Oraya. Raihn admits he feels he has hurt Oraya deeply and questions whether he is the right person to help her. Mische urges him not to abandon Oraya, comparing her favorably to Nessanyn, a figure from Raihn’s past. Raihn insists he has not abandoned Oraya, remembering his marriage vows: “Your soul is my soul. Your blood is my blood. Your heart is my heart.” He confesses he wanted to save Oraya but now doubts himself.
After Mische reluctantly agrees to stay with Oraya, Raihn goes to Oraya’s door. She is reading in bed, looking slightly better. He tells her he is leaving for Sivrinaj; Oraya reacts with a mix of anger and concealed worry. Raihn explains the noble rebellion. Oraya thanks him for healing her wings, and Raihn tells her she was made for the sky. He departs at midnight, glancing back to see Oraya watching from the window—a small victory.
Key Events
- Raihn receives Vale’s letter detailing Rishan noble disobedience near Sivrinaj; he suspects Simon Vasarus.
- Mische presses Raihn about the intimate moment with Oraya; Raihn admits he caused her pain and questions his role.
- Mische compares Oraya to Nessanyn; Raihn flinches but agrees Oraya is stronger.
- Raihn decides to leave Oraya behind and travel ahead; Mische disagrees but agrees to stay.
- Raihn says goodbye to Oraya at her door; she is cold at first but thanks him for healing her wings.
- Raihn departs at midnight; he sees Oraya at the window and they exchange a small wave.
Character Development
Raihn struggles with the guilt of his earlier actions toward Oraya. He realizes his “noble sacrifice” only gave her more nightmares. His internal conflict between wanting to protect her and believing he is not worthy reveals deep self-doubt. His marriage vows weigh on him, and he resents the power he has been forced into. He shows a softer side when he heals Oraya’s wings and admires her strength.
Mische acts as a confidante and moral compass. She sees through Raihn’s walls, encourages him to let Oraya in, and refuses to let him retreat emotionally. Her own trauma (implied by burn scars) adds depth to her empathy.
Oraya appears briefly but her guardedness slips: she shows worry when Raihn says he is leaving, and gratitude for the wing healing. The moment she waves from the window signals a fragile connection.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- The weight of vows: Raihn’s repeated recall of his wedding vows contrasts his actions with his intentions. He holds himself to a promise he fears he cannot keep.
- Healing and vulnerability: Oraya’s wings—both physical and symbolic—represent her power and her capacity to heal. Raihn’s act of healing them is a rare moment of authentic care.
- Duty vs. guilt: Raihn feels compelled to act as king but resents the role; his guilt over Oraya complicates his sense of duty.
- Isolation and connection: Mische insists Oraya needs someone; Raihn’s departure reflects his fear of intimacy. The final image of Oraya watching him leave underscores the theme of two people reaching toward each other through pain.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter deepens Raihn’s character arc by exposing his internal reckoning. It clarifies the political stakes in the Rishan lands and sets up a separation that will test the fragile bond between Raihn and Oraya. The healing of Oraya’s wings, along with the brief moment of connection at the window, provides a glimmer of hope amid the guilt and tension.
Study Questions and Answers
Q1: Why does Raihn decide to leave Oraya behind, and what does this reveal about his view of himself? A1: Raihn leaves because he believes he has only harmed Oraya and doubts he can be the one to help her. He decides to handle the Rishan rebellion alone, telling Mische to stay with Oraya instead. This reveals his low self-worth and his fear that his presence, not his absence, is dangerous to her.
Q2: How does Mische challenge Raihn’s reasoning, and what does her argument reveal about Oraya’s situation? A2: Mische accuses Raihn of running away and insists that Oraya needs someone—because everyone has abandoned her. She compares Oraya to Nessanyn but argues Oraya is stronger. Her argument shows that Oraya is isolated and vulnerable, and that Raihn’s departure risks repeating her past traumas.
Q3: What is the significance of Oraya’s thanks for the healing of her wings? A3: The thanks is significant because it represents the first moment of genuine gratitude and connection between them after the trauma. Raihn’s response—that she was made for the sky—affirms her worth and potential. The wings, both burdens and gifts, symbolize Oraya’s growing power and the possibility of reclaiming her freedom.