Morning in Hak-Ulm's main street after Korr's retreat. The village is tense, with the ledger table still set outside the headman's house.

Vandel and his escort arrive at the entrance to Hak-Ulm.

The escort fills the street, and Hak-Ulm realizes it cannot fight head-on.

Vandel addresses Tasso publicly and establishes their relationship.

Vandel states his claim to Hak-Ulm, and Tasso answers with his existing lordship.

Vandel dismisses Tasso's claim as a loophole and reminds everyone of the power imbalance.

Breck the notary confirms Tasso's current legal standing despite being afraid.

Vandel dares Tasso to use his last seal directly on him.

Tasso explains why he cannot stamp Vandel because they are direct relatives under Ysabet's blood-pact.

Vandel presses his advantage and threatens formal seizure.

Leas considers surrender terms to prevent violence.

Leas offers marriage to Vandel as a way to save the village.

Tasso and Leas argue over her offer while Vandel listens.

Vandel moves to exploit Leas's offer, and her exposed palm triggers Tasso's stamp-sight.

Tasso sees the hidden seal-history in Leas's palm.

Tasso reads the content of Meren's old custodian-clause.

The hidden history reveals Meren's intent, and Leas realizes her father kept a burden from her.

Breck verifies Leas's old custodian seal in front of both sides.

Tasso names Leas as equal custodian of Hak-Ulm.

Leas withdraws the marriage offer herself and asserts her authority.

Vandel recognizes that his clean legal seizure has become complicated.

The chapter ends with Leas and Tasso standing together as Vandel's demand remains unresolved.