The Brotherhood’s Recruitment
Theodosia and the Serpents of ChaosThis thread traces how Theodosia’s private knowledge of curses brings her into contact with the secret organization that studies them.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
A Wounded Operative

A Wounded Operative
A message from the injured
Stokes, gravely wounded, directs Theodosia to Wigmere at the Society of Antiquaries. He warns her of forces of chaos before losing consciousness.
A route into secrecy
Theodosia leaves Henry to watch over Stokes and seeks help at Somerset House. The rescue effort becomes her first direct step into an organization she did not know existed.
The Secret Organization

The Secret Organization
A talent recognized
Theodosia explains how she detects curses through bodily sensations, wax tests, and moonlit hieroglyphs. Wigmere realizes her skill surpasses the Brotherhood’s slower methods.
An invitation with limits
He identifies his group as the Brotherhood of the Chosen Keepers and asks for her help. Its members value her ability, but insist that its existence remain secret.
Level Six Revealed

Level Six Revealed
A hidden workplace
Wigmere takes Theodosia beneath the Society of Antiquaries to Level Six, a crowded center of research and operations. Its modern equipment contrasts with the ancient objects it contains.
Danger made visible
A curse attacks Danver’s arm, showing that the Brotherhood’s expertise cannot prevent every mistake. Theodosia intervenes with an amulet and wax, demonstrating why her unusual knowledge matters.
A Field Test

A Field Test
The wax treatment
Theodosia directs the operatives to encase Danver’s cursed arm in melted wax. As the material darkens and peels away, it draws the curse from his skin.
Respect earned
The intervention succeeds, though it removes the arm hair as well. Wigmere recognizes her quick thinking, and the Brotherhood’s members see her ability in action rather than merely hearing her describe it.
Honorary Keeper

Honorary Keeper
A report to Wigmere
Theodosia tells Wigmere how she uncovered the Serpents of Chaos’ wider ambitions, though the conspirators escaped. Her information strengthens the Brotherhood’s understanding of the threat.
Recognition and belonging
Wigmere gives her a gold-and-lapis ring and names her an honorary member. The honor confirms her place among people who take her knowledge seriously, even as the Brotherhood keeps its deeper work hidden.
After the attack in St Paul’s churchyard
That afternoon in Wigmere’s office
During the first visit to the Brotherhood’s operations
Minutes after Danver’s curse erupts
After Theodosia returns from Egypt