“I have a settlement in Lostwood called New Dawn. For people like us. Those who want to bask in Narcissi’s great truth, who want to develop our Abilities faster and stronger, who wish to be prepared to defend ourselves against those who aren’t blessed with Narcissi’s Light when they eventually come for us. And, mark my words, they will one day come for us.”

“It’s the Guardians’ jobs to make sure that never happens.”

“And how is that going so far? How many are dead in Seer because of godsblood being consumed by the wrong person? Lostwood grows larger by the day, and more of Narcissi’s blood is reaching the settlements on its fringe. It’s only a matter of time before there are different versions of the nightdemon popping up so fast that even an army of Forsworn Guardians won’t be able to stamp them all out. And do you think they’ll have time to make friends and try to nurse them back to health? No, they—you—will need to kill them with speed and then move onto the next one. Is that the life you envisioned for yourself, as a butcher of those who are only guilty of seeing something golden and glowing like honey and daring to taste it?”

“You’re twisting things. That’s not what we do. That’s not what we are.”

“Maybe not now, but the world is changing faster than Cintra is willing to admit. She pretends to be so righteous, but have you ever asked her about the regular godsblood deliveries her messengers make to the palace at Marchessault? She claims godsblood use is only permitted for those Forsworn filled with Narcissi’s Light, and yet she gives it freely to the crown. In return, she pulls the strings of government. What she really desires, what she has always desired, is power. And if you think that’s scandalous, just ask her why she never uses the same messenger twice.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“And I don’t care. Just ask her. See if you get a logical answer. Now I must return to my novices, for I have been away from them for too long and they require my guidance. Just know that the proverbial gates to New Dawn will always be open for a young woman as talented as you. And if you ever change your mind, simply follow Lostriver north. We’ll find you.”

“Find me?”

“Yes, yes, of course we will. Oh, and one more thing: Do me a favor and neglect to tell Cintra about our little chance meeting at Seer and my role in the events that took place there. Trust me, it’s for your own good. She gets rather cranky whenever she hears my name, so best not be the messenger. You should take all the credit for completing your mission successfully, you deserve it!”