Aelin and her companions reach Wendlyn’s western shore at night after traveling through the caves. The creatures that carried their boat vanish before they can be thanked, and the group moves north until they find a port. With gold taken from the barrow-wights and wartime border restrictions lifted, Rowan and Lorcan secure a ship bound for the continent.

Aelin sends messages, including one meant for Aedion and Lysandra, though she doubts whether they will arrive. As the ship leaves on the midnight tide, Rowan uses his magic to speed it away from Maeve. Aelin worries that Maeve may follow with an army or aid Terrasen’s destruction, but she takes comfort in the fact that Maeve still does not know where the Wyrdkeys are.

Standing at the prow, Aelin reflects on the dark blood she may have seen turn red in Maeve’s throne room and decides not to tell the others until she understands it. She resolves to spend the voyage rebuilding her strength through training so she can fight for Terrasen. Rowan urges her to rest, then says they need to discuss what Maeve revealed about their bond.

In their cabin, Aelin and Rowan speak openly about being mates. Aelin fears the truth may wound Rowan because of Lyria’s death and Maeve’s manipulation, but Rowan says he wished Aelin had told him and that he had already hoped the truth in his heart was real. Rowan distinguishes Maeve’s crimes from Aelin’s choices and refuses to blame Aelin for Lyria’s fate.

Aelin reveals that Maeve tempted her with dream-realities, especially one where Erawan had never risen, Terrasen was whole, her family lived, and Aelin and Rowan recognized each other as mates without all their suffering. Aelin admits that this illusion nearly broke her, but she rejected it because the Rowan she loves is the one who endured pain with her and returned with her to the light.

Rowan promises that they will face Erawan, the Lock, and any cost together, even if the Lock demands Aelin’s life. Aelin worries that Terrasen needs a king, but Rowan says he will not rule without her. After Rowan asks whether Aelin is ready to be touched and kissed again, they reaffirm their mating bond, reclaim each other physically and emotionally, and end the chapter united in the promise that they will find a way together.