Ellen's tasks for the summer start off very clear to her, but she didn't figure on the destruction of the winter earthquake or her brother's insanity or her own fragile self-control. Without Rosa, she would be entirely lost. She doesn't want to challenge her brother and the Lianthem. The Cryptals have a firm hold of her destiny and will not release her. She is shoved into a final battle with her brother. A sorry challenge that seals her from freedom.