Imperial soldiers have assembled Ashwick's citizens in the town square. A priest reveals Duke Aldric is accused of heresy and demon worship of Mithras. A guillotine is presented. The crowd is divided into good citizens and heretics.

Thomas enters King Aldrics private chamber where the king removed his mask. The bed remains unmade from the night of the ritual with dried tears. He finds dozens of letters to Elise and an unfinished letter to Eleanor revealing plans to transform her too.