These excerpts detail a tumultuous period in the life of the narrator, FitzChivalry, as he navigates political intrigue, personal relationships, and the ongoing war against the Red-Ships and their mutated victims, the Forged ones. A central conflict revolves around Prince Regal, who plots against his father, King Shrewd, and his brother, Verity, while Fitz attempts to protect the royal family and manage his illicit bond with his wolf, Nighteyes, a secret Burrich uncovers. The text also explores Fitz’s complicated relationships with Molly, whom he is prevented from courting due to his status as a royal bastard and his king's service, and with Queen Kettricken, who is pregnant with Verity's heir and actively seeking aid for the Six Duchies. Ultimately, Fitz is imprisoned and tortured by Regal for suspected treason and Wit magic use, but he is forced to work with Burrich and the Fool to aid the Queen’s escape following King Shrewd's death, which is implied to be at Regal’s hand through the manipulation of Skill users.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.