Kamran watches Alizeh being dragged down the hall after Mrs. Amina’s threats, and the sight leaves him unable to focus on Duchess Jamilah’s hospitality. He recognizes Alizeh by her movements and injuries, and he is tormented by the contradiction between Alizeh’s ability to kill five attackers and Alizeh’s willingness to endure abuse as a servant.

As Duchess Jamilah talks about the upcoming ball and possible introductions, Kamran thinks through Alizeh’s situation. Kamran realizes Alizeh likely remains at Baz House because a noble household gives Alizeh anonymity, walls, guards, shelter, and cover—protection Alizeh may not be able to obtain elsewhere as a Jinn trying to remain unseen.

Kamran reflects on the real purpose of Kamran’s visit: King Zaal has sent Kamran to Baz House as a spy. Zaal believes the prophecy means Alizeh may have powerful allies, and after the failed attack on Alizeh, Zaal wants evidence of any spy network, rebels, or private force before attempting to kill Alizeh again and risking unrest between Jinn and Clay.

Zaal’s men followed Alizeh but found no proof of allies, so Zaal ordered Kamran to use his expected visit to Duchess Jamilah as cover to search Alizeh’s quarters during the day. Kamran does not believe Alizeh had help in killing the attackers, but Kamran hopes to find some evidence—however weak—that might delay or prevent another attempt on Alizeh’s life.

Duchess Jamilah notices Kamran’s distraction and speaks to Kamran with genuine affection, reminding him of their close family bond and Kamran’s childhood at Baz House. Kamran uses nostalgia as an excuse to ask for time alone to wander the house; Duchess Jamilah gladly permits it and remains behind to arrange luncheon, allowing Kamran to begin his covert search.