Episode: 2Episodes: 50
Seraphina weeps in the snow and informs the Bearded Knight that she requires more time to settle her final tasks. Back inside, she confronts gossiping staff who mock her position. She then reflects by a window on five years of unacknowledged labor. In the council hall, Alistair demands she appease Baron Varrick at a banquet for northern supply routes, choking her when she protests. Seraphina concedes to his command.
Snow falls outside the main gate as Seraphina cries before the Bearded Knight. She asks him to relay a message to her brother. She still needs a short window of time to finish her remaining duties at the fortress.
In the hallway, a soldier and a male servant gossip about Seraphina losing her place to the incoming Valemont princess. Seraphina steps forward and cuts them off. She quotes strict legal codes and threatens to slash their military provisions.
Seraphina pauses by a tall window along the quiet gallery. She spent five years directing state affairs for Alistair without receiving an invitation to any formal banquet. She realizes he never planned on letting her stand beside him in public.
Alistair tells Seraphina to dress in fine clothes for Baron Varrick's banquet to gain northern mining corridors. When she questions if he is trading her away, Alistair grabs her throat in anger. She agrees to attend the feast.
“Mind your place, Seraphina. Are you questioning me? I need those routes, and you are my High Scribe. Keep him satisfied. Secure the access. That is your duty.”
“As Your Grace commands. I will attend tonight's banquet on time.”
Seraphina accepts Alistair's brutal ultimatum and promises to appear at the feast dressed as requested. Her heart is shattered, yet she prepares to face the dangerous nobleman alone. Will Baron Varrick take advantage of Alistair's cold bargain, or will Seraphina find a way to protect herself when she enters the banquet chamber tonight?