The Darklands

Petro and company flee Westminster through hidden passages, travel five days through the Blackwood to Lord Harwood's estate. Sir Martin reveals his wife Catherine's story around the campfire.

The final battle as the keep falls. Defenders show restraint despite having power to slaughter. Gregory dies. Sir Martin and Marcus arrive to witness and participate. Hank refuses to use devastating power, choosing humanity over victory.

Petro writes letter to Suzanne explaining what he learned, that he can't come home, apologizing for lies about executions. Tells her he loves her and sets her free. Suzanne receives news from Martin that Petro betrayed mission and sided with demons.

The evacuation of 200 refugees through hidden tunnels begins. Families say farewell to defenders staying behind to buy time. Petro guides the last group and instructs the twin boys to build something better. Brother Marcus confronts the Church army about the morality of murdering families.

Citadel council debates what to do with Petro. He admits he doesn't deserve mercy after killing so many. Debate: execute, exile, or accept him. Elder: "Redemption is not earned. It's chosen daily." Decision: Petro may stay but must face his past. Task to help warn other refugees.

Petro and Sir Martin return to Westminster with evidence. After filing reports and securing Knight Commander Ashford as ally, they face Malchus in armed corridor standoff where Ashford intervenes. They race home to find agents ransacking quarters.

Martin refuses to execute Reyna, is relieved of command. Army begins fracturing - Jonathan and soldiers question orders. NEW: Named soldiers count the doubters in camp, share what they witnessed during assaults, and prepare for the moment when conscience overrides orders. Anna wakes from injury.

Marcus leads zealot attack on Citadel. Battle erupts despite Petro's efforts. Petro tries to stop violence, nearly killed by both sides. Thomas protects Petro. Hank defends with powerful magic. Citadel defenders include magic users and refugees. Petro sees both sides believe they're righteous.

Three months after Kate's transformation, Alexis Chen monitors the barrier signals in the analysis center. One year later, on the anniversary of the nexus, the signal begins to fluctuate in a mathematical pattern.