Everline argues with her great-grandfather for Straxus' life, but just when it seems she might be persuading him, Eliad arrives along with Phaithe. Fargo recognizes her as the assassin that attacked the Empress at a previous Gathering, and the situation is thrown into chaos.
Everline once again tries to settle the situation, but - before she can - she is attacked by an unexpected source ... Ferah!
Ferah, driven by the desire to free Earth and her people, has decided Everline must die. The Empress, her powers still sealed, is defenseless before the werewolf's attack.
All those nearby are quick to come to her aid. Eliad tries to intervene, but is not prepared for Ferah's unique abilities. Even Straxus' sacrifice of an arm to unleash a fiery torrent has nearly no effect.
When it becomes clear that no one present could stop Ferah before it was too late, Phaithe takes action. Using her ability of stealth, she is able to sneak up on Ferah and deliver a poisoned strike. Even Ferah's lychanthropic metabolism is unable to stave off the poison's effects, and she is left helpless.
Still, the wound she inflicted on Everline was grievous. And without magical healing - for fear of the seal placed upon her by the demon Skiff - even a mundane wound is all too serious.