A week after the duel, Celaena recovers in her rooms with Fleetfoot nearby, still limping but eager to heal enough to run again. Philippa prepares space for the new clothes Celaena expects to buy with her future salary, while Dorian and Nehemia have been keeping Celaena company. At night, Celaena dreams of Wyrdmarks, magic, the king, and a dead army, but Celaena tries to push those memories away.

Chaol visits Celaena for the first time since the duel, creating immediate tension and awkwardness. Chaol apologizes for staying away, and Celaena thanks Chaol for saving her life and killing Cain. Chaol admits that Cain's death troubles him because killing Cain felt easy and because Chaol wanted to do it.

Chaol asks how Cain knew about Celaena's parents, and Celaena lies by saying she does not know. Celaena inwardly understands that Cain's access to other realms let Cain see into Celaena's memories. When Chaol expresses sorrow for Celaena's parents' murder, Celaena briefly recounts waking in their blood and being found soon afterward by Arobynn Hamel, though Celaena hides how vividly she remembers them.

Celaena tries to comfort Chaol for what Chaol did for her, but Chaol attempts to leave. Celaena stops Chaol and embraces him, and Chaol returns the embrace in an intimate, wordless moment. Dorian arrives at the doorway, and Chaol abruptly pulls away and leaves, making the charged atmosphere impossible to ignore.

Dorian tells Celaena that the king has finally prepared her contract and that Celaena will sign it in the council chamber the next day, officially becoming the King's Champion. The news makes Celaena focus on the promise of four years of service followed by freedom. When Dorian tries to continue their romance, Celaena refuses, explaining that her role as the king's servant, Dorian's position as Crown Prince, their secrets, and her eventual departure make a lasting relationship impossible.

Dorian accepts Celaena's decision and agrees to remain her friend, though the moment is painful for both of them. After Dorian leaves and congratulates Celaena, Celaena stands alone by the window and repeats the word that now defines her future: free.