Ravenlough remains in danger. Devin realizes she will not be able to keep Bram's men at bay on her own. Upon Oran's pained urging she reluctantly lets Tristan go to create an alliance with a stronger house, and agrees to marry the ambitious Marcas, a charismatic man who is not as he seems. In his anger and despair, Tristan leaves to forge his own path at the palace of the high-king, Aedh. Devin is heartbroken, but resigned that it is the only way...