After the fall of the glass castle, Aelin remains in the palace rather than returning to her old apartment because Dorian is still grieving and burdened by guilt. Lysandra brings the last of Aelin’s clothes, and Aelin reflects on having comforted Dorian after Chaol finally spoke and Nesryn was summoned.

Aelin then gives Lysandra a ring and reveals that she is appointing her as lady of a small northern territory once held by the Allsbrook family. The ring’s ghost leopard engraving represents the land, while the key symbol reminds Lysandra that she now holds her own freedom.

Lysandra is stunned and insists she does not deserve the title and that Terrasen’s people may resent Aelin for elevating her. Aelin rejects this, saying Lysandra’s sacrifices for Evangeline and her defense of Aelin’s court prove her worth. Aelin places the ring on Lysandra’s finger and tells her they will learn to rule together, effectively welcoming Lysandra into her court.

That evening, Aelin’s newly formed court shares its first meal together. Dorian arrives hesitantly, but Aelin bluntly invites him to sit. Earlier that day, Dorian signed a decree freeing all kingdoms conquered by Adarlan, an act Aelin wishes Nehemia could have witnessed.

Aelin introduces Dorian to Rowan and Lysandra in their new roles, while Aedion watches tensely, aware of how much has changed since their childhood. As the rulers and allies sit together again after ten years of destruction and separation, Aelin raises a glass to a new world, and Dorian answers with a toast to freedom.