At Morath, the duke and Vernon survive Kaltain’s destruction, though a third of the fortress is blown apart along with many guards, servants, supplies, two covens, and the presumed remains of Elide Lochan. Manon privately gives thanks that most covens were away training, limiting the losses among the witches.

In the duke’s council chamber, the duke rages that the damage will delay Morath’s plans for months. While men search the catacomb ruins for Kaltain’s body and the stone Kaltain carried, Manon keeps secret that Elide is alive and traveling north with it.

The duke orders Manon to have the covens ready for new battle plans before Manon’s grandmother arrives in two weeks. Manon understands that Dorian’s new kingship has not ended the threat: once the witch towers are finished and the duke finds another source of shadowfire, the army still intends to attack Aelin Galathynius.

As Manon leaves, Manon confronts Vernon for what Vernon tried to do to Elide. Though Vernon insists Manon cannot harm Vernon, Manon wounds Vernon’s shoulder and warns that Aelin is alive and has a score to settle.

Later, in the witches’ new aerie, Asterin asks whether they will stay and fight when Manon’s grandmother arrives. Manon says they will wait for the towers, then asks Asterin about the human hunter Asterin once loved. Asterin explains that love was both ruinous and life-giving, and Manon, instead of condemning Asterin, admits that things are changing.