Aelin questions Vernon about Maeve’s arrival and learns that Maeve came to Morath alone, without an army. Vernon assumes Maeve’s forces remain near the coast awaiting orders, but he does not know where they are or what Maeve and Erawan specifically agreed to do. He also does not know where Erawan keeps the third Wyrdkey, though Aelin presses him about the black stone like the one once placed in Kaltain Rompier’s arm.

Vernon reveals that Maeve has some sort of influence over Erawan and that the Ironteeth stationed at the Ferian Gap have been called north to Terrasen. They are joining the forces that already routed the border army and sacked Perranth. Aelin realizes that one hundred thousand soldiers are marching on Orynth and that her own army, still two weeks away at best through difficult terrain, cannot reach the city in time.

After Vernon confirms that Maeve and Erawan intend to go to Orynth and face Aelin there, Aelin ends the interrogation. Vernon expects to be released because he gave information, but Aelin points out that she only promised none of them would kill him. Gavriel tightens Vernon’s chains, and Aelin leaves him locked in the room to die slowly, making clear that his punishment echoes the years Elide spent chained in a tower.

Aelin gives Elide the key, leaving the final choice with the Lady of Perranth. Elide accepts the key and decides that they should find a better way to seal the room, allowing Vernon’s punishment to stand while he screams and pleads behind the door.

Later, Aelin pauses on a balcony with Rowan and looks down at the army gathered in the Gap. She tells Rowan that their worst fears are confirmed: Maeve and Erawan are united, and a massive force is nearly upon Orynth. Rowan reassures Aelin that they will face it together, but Aelin wonders whether anything will remain by the time they arrive and whether she was wrong to spend her restored power on the army rather than saving it for Maeve and Erawan. Rowan urges her not to dwell on what-ifs, yet Aelin senses that even her mate may not have an answer.