Scythe Chapter 40 - The Ordained (Final Chapter)

Chapter 40: The Ordained

The Conclave Begins

• Citra and Rowan are introduced to the conclave, where silence falls over the Assembly Hall as they face the gathered scythes.

• Their presence commands respect, with Rowan feeling satisfaction in this pivotal moment despite their previous failures in tests.

Judgment of the Committee

• Scythe Mandela announces that both candidates failed their initial tests but acknowledges extenuating circumstances; their instinct to protect each other is noted.

• Both Citra and Rowan express their willingness to accept the committee's judgment, indicating a sense of duty and acceptance of their roles.

Citra's Ordination

• Scythe Mandela declares Citra as Scythe Anastasia, leading to an eruption of cheers from the assembly, showcasing her overwhelming support.

• Despite some dissent regarding her choice of patron historic (Anastasia Romanov), Citra defends her decision by highlighting themes of corruption and potential for change.

Embracing Her Role

• Citra vows to become a force for change, reflecting on what could have been had Anastasia lived; she aims to redeem her name through her actions as a scythe.

• The assembly applauds her choice, signaling approval and unity among the scythes despite prior tensions surrounding Rowan.

The Gleaning Decision

• As part of her ordination process, Citra must choose a method for gleaning; she opts for a blade due to its significance in her trials.

• A tray of knives is presented; she reflects on using one previously against her brother but shows resolve in making this difficult decision.

A Twist During Gleaning

• Just before executing the gleaning on Rowan, he expresses his honor at being gleaned by her; however, she surprises everyone by punching him instead.

• Tension escalates when a parliamentarian interrupts just as she's about to complete the act, revealing that all scythe rings are glowing red.

Scythe Immunity and Chaos

The Conclave's Outrage

• A roar of outrage erupted in the conclave after it was revealed that Rowan had immunity due to a blood transmission from Citra's ring, which contained his DNA.

• Citra is recognized for her cleverness by Rowan, who praises her as a genius, but she humbly insists on being addressed as Scythe Anastasia.

• Zenokrates accuses Citra of violating a scythe edict; however, she defends herself by stating that it was not her intention to grant Rowan immunity.

Debating Consequences

• Sonakaris expresses disbelief at Citra’s actions but acknowledges her potential within the scythe community, suggesting imprisonment for Rowan until his immunity expires.

• The assembly hall devolves into chaos as various scythes propose different forms of punishment for Rowan, including house arrest.

A Critical Decision

• Citra discreetly informs Rowan about an escape plan involving knives and a car waiting outside, leaving his fate in his own hands.

• Their exchange reveals mutual affection; Rowan declares love for Citra, who reciprocates before urging him to leave quickly.

The Escape

• In an impressive display of agility and skill, Rowan uses three blades to navigate through the chaos created by the scythes attempting to restrain him.

• His swift movements result in injuries among several scythes while he manages to evade capture entirely.

Aftermath and Reflection

• As order is sought again in the conclave, Citra kisses her ring with some of Rowan's blood on it—a symbolic gesture marking their connection amidst turmoil.

• Upon escaping in a car driven by Scythe Faraday, they share a moment reflecting on their survival against overwhelming odds.

The Nature of Conflict

Historical Context

• A journal entry reflects on humanity's history of conflict during mortality and how such strife has shifted focus over time.

Current Peace vs. Underlying Threat

• Despite peace prevailing globally now, there remains an exception—scythes are becoming increasingly dangerous due to internal corruption within their ranks.

The Role of Scythes

• Early scythes were visionaries who understood the importance of maintaining purity and compassion within their roles; however, this ideal is threatened by greed and privilege.

Emerging Threat: Scythe Lucifer

• Rumors circulate about an individual dubbed "Scythe Lucifer," who targets corrupt scythes. This figure raises concerns about vigilantism outside ordained practices.

Personal Struggle

• The narrator grapples with their new role as a scythe while striving to glean with compassion amidst fears regarding the implications of power and morality.