While ministering to the City's residents, Gaelin discovers that the Magistatiem is planning something, but Davi suspects a trap. Meanwhile, Alesta's efforts to appease the Angel take a drastic turn.

It is the morning after Serafine's revelation, and the skies rain blood. Davi and River experiment with the aither, eventually drawing Praeton into their investigation.

During Osvald's funeral, Alesta officially assumes leadership of the Ecclesiat. Afterwards, Serafine gathers Gaelin and company in the anchorage cells...answering some questions, but raising many more.

Gaelin and company continue their investigation into the Hapax. Unexpected discoveries leave Gaelin feeling disillusioned and more drained than ever.

Father Osvald is dead, and Gaelin struggles to cope with the aftermath. Davi and Serafine venture into the City to check on the bridges' progress, while Praeton and River bond.

Gaelin and Alesta examine the "Prophecies of St. Memoyah," and discover references to the Hapax: the Word of Ael, the Word which began all creation. Meanwhile, Davi and River seek refuge in the Ecclesiat. They stir Gaelin's sympathies, but by passing River off as human, they play an increasingly dangerous game.

An unfortunate encounter piques Professor Volpes's suspicions, forcing Davi and River into flight. An assembly of the monks devolves into an argument between Gaelin and Alesta. The end is coming, but so is change.

Gaelin ventures into magi territory to retrieve "The Prophecies of St. Memoyah," where he encounters Davi and River. Back at the Ecclesiat, choirboy Praeton makes a new friend...and a new enemy.

The results of River's evaluation leave Davi fearing for her safety. Meanwhile, unrest among the people draws Gaelin away from his vigil over the increasingly-ill Father Osvald. Though he is determined to investigate the failure of Candlemass further, he must decide how deeply he is willing to delve.