When Jude returns to her rooms, Tatterfell is already there cleaning and scolding her for the mess, including Cardan’s discarded trousers. Jude realizes Tatterfell could only have come with Madoc’s knowledge, which makes the familiar comfort of her old nursemaid’s presence feel dangerous.

Taryn emerges from Jude’s bedroom and reveals that she gained entry by impersonating Jude and getting a copy of her key. Taryn says she persuaded Madoc to give the remainder of Tatterfell’s debt of service to Jude, but Jude suspects the gift is a way for Madoc to spy on her. When Jude tries to release Tatterfell from the debt, Tatterfell refuses, insisting that her vow to Madoc has meaning and cannot be dismissed.

Jude burns Cardan’s bloody bandages before Tatterfell can notice too much, then inspects the clothes, jewels, and old belongings Taryn has brought from home. The items remind Jude of her former self: a girl who wanted Madoc’s approval, a place at Court, and a life governed by honor. Jude recognizes that she no longer fits easily into that identity.

Taryn then shows Jude sketches for new clothing, offering to have herself measured so Jude will not need fittings. Jude realizes Taryn is trying too hard to be helpful and asks what she wants. Taryn admits she wants Jude to stop Locke from serving as Master of Revels.

Taryn explains that Locke sees revels as chances to create conflict and manipulate people, and that he is already studying Court factions such as the Larks and the Grackles for weaknesses. Taryn does not object to his lovers as much as to his absence and his hunger for dramatic cruelty. Although Jude thinks Taryn should not marry him, Taryn insists Locke makes her feel like the heroine of her own story.

Jude considers ordering Cardan to strip Locke’s title but rejects the idea because it would look petty, expose Jude’s hidden power over Cardan, and would not truly stop Locke. Instead, Jude lies and says she will talk to Cardan. Taryn notices where Cardan’s clothes had been and smiles, suggesting she has drawn her own conclusions about Jude and the High King.