As Alara and Lorian make their way back from the temple, Lorian's true motives come to light. He reveals that he was sent by a powerful organization, the Order of the Veiled Sun, which seeks the Astral Key to control its power and bend reality to their will. Lorian, however, has developed feelings for Alara, putting him in a conflicted position. Torn between his loyalty to the Order and his growing bond with her, he tries to convince Alara to join forces with him, promising that together they can wield the Astral Key for good.

Feeling betrayed, Alara rejects his proposal, realizing she cannot trust him. She narrowly escapes his grasp, using an incantation her mother had taught her as a child. Alone once more, Alara is forced to confront her destiny—and the dark twin that lurks within her soul.