Dorian spends the morning in the Crochan camp practicing his shapeshifting magic in a young witch's female form. He studies how the body moves and confirms that neither the Crochans nor the Thirteen recognize him, proving the disguise could help him infiltrate Morath.

Manon notices him by scent and confronts him, immediately understanding that the transformation means Dorian is preparing to go to Morath. Their tense exchange turns personal: Manon warns him she is not a softhearted woman who will beg him away from danger, while Dorian challenges her refusal to admit that she wants him to stay.

Dorian uses invisible hands and talons to unsettle Manon and accuses her of being afraid—not of enemies, but of her own attachment and desires. Manon denies his claim and walks away, but the accusation follows her and forces her to acknowledge that it may be true.

Manon moves through the camp as the Crochans prepare to depart without inviting the Thirteen to join them. She recognizes her failure to truly win the Crochans' trust, partly because she has not shown them her grief, vulnerability, or the truth of what killing her sister cost her.

At Glennis's hearth, the ancient witch says good-bye and wishes Manon safe passage. Before they can part, Glennis scents danger on the wind and urges Manon to run. Manon draws Wind-Cleaver instead as three wyverns descend from the clouds: the Ironteeth Matrons have found the camp and come to finish their war against Manon and the Crochans.