Synopsis

The chapter opens with the protagonist under attack, accused of heresy and attempting to manipulate others, including a kidnapped princess. He negotiates with the aggressors and ultimately rescues the princess, causing the Tower's status and difficulty to escalate. The protagonist's actions have garnered support from the Shadow Council, granting him a buff, while simultaneously earning the ire of the Watchers of Light. This establishes the protagonist's divided alliances and the escalating conflict ahead.