The Thirteen and the Crochans do not disperse after their confrontation with the Ironteeth Matrons. Instead, they fly southwest toward another hidden camp in the outer Fangs, farther from Terrasen but closer to Morath. Because the Crochans cannot fly as long as the wyverns, they stop at nightfall, set watches, lay false trails, and use glamours to hide the fires needed against the deadly cold.

Dorian settles into his tent knowing the group must soon decide whether to remain united, part ways, or commit to war. Manon comes to him wearing her crown of stars, and they speak frankly about her new queenship, her grandmother’s escape, and Dorian’s killing of his father. Dorian argues that humiliating Manon’s grandmother may weaken the Ironteeth more than killing her would have, and Manon apologizes for how she reacted to his plan to go to Morath.

Manon realizes Dorian intends to leave the next day. Dorian confirms that he will go alone to Morath, using his own magic to make wings, because he believes confronting Morath is his task. Manon admits the witches cannot go with him and asks whether he would stay if she gave him a reason.

Manon offers an alliance between Adarlan, the Crochans, and any Ironteeth who follow her, making clear that she means an alliance between herself and Dorian through marriage. She hopes Adarlan’s support might convince the Crochans to fly to war. Dorian recognizes the enormity of her sacrifice but also sees that marriage would become a cage for Manon, so he does not accept the offer.

Manon admits she is afraid Dorian will enter Morath and return as something she must kill. Their fear and desire turn into a night of intimacy, during which Dorian nearly gives in to the temptation of accepting Manon as his queen but holds back. Manon falls asleep in Dorian’s arms, but at dawn she wakes to find Dorian gone, along with his supplies, the ancient sword, and the two Wyrdkeys.