Back in Maeve’s tower room, Dorian asks whether mirrors can show a different world. Maeve explains that mirrors can spy, travel, kill, and create convincing illusions, revealing that she taught witches such powers and that Erawan uses mirrors with the Ironteeth towers. Dorian realizes Maeve does not intend to show Erawan his brothers, Orcus and Mantyx, but to distract Erawan with an illusion while Dorian enters Erawan’s tower.

Maeve says her world-walking gift can move Dorian between rooms once she finishes unraveling Erawan’s wards. Dorian challenges why Maeve has waited, and Maeve admits she only now deems the risk worthwhile because Erawan has forced her handmaidens into danger. Their exchange exposes Maeve’s attachment to the spiders and her claim that not all Valg are evil, though she avoids answering whether she herself delights in cruelty.

Dorian and Maeve confirm the plan: Maeve will break through Erawan’s defenses, open a portal, and deceive Erawan with an illusion of Orcus convincing enough because Orcus was once Maeve’s husband. Dorian understands that once he finds the Wyrdkey, Erawan will know he has been tricked, so escape must be immediate. Maeve also expects Dorian to take her to wherever the other keys are hidden, but Dorian conceals his reaction.

At nightfall, Maeve leaves to meet Erawan while Dorian waits in Maeve’s chamber, wearing a form with golden hair and golden eyes so intruders will think Erawan occupies the room. Dorian steels himself against fear, refusing to dwell on Morath’s horrors or the Wyrdstone collars beneath the fortress. When the wall turns black and vanishes into a portal reeking of death and hatred, Dorian draws Damaris, summons a faint fire, and steps through.