Chaol and Nesryn stand in a hidden forest clearing after a successful rebel ambush. Two dozen Valg are dead, Chaol is covered in their blood, and the prisoners being transported toward Morath have been freed without rebel casualties. Chaol takes grim satisfaction in saving more people at once than the rebels have ever rescued before.

As the rebels unchain the captives from the overcrowded wagons, Chaol sees the damage done to them and quietly recommits himself to protecting the others still hidden in Rifthold. A rescued woman thanks him with injured hands, underscoring the brutality of the king’s forces and the urgency of the rebel work.

Chaol approaches Nesryn, impressed by her skill in the fight, but their personal tension remains unresolved. Nesryn challenges Chaol for treating her like a distraction and for reacting badly when she asks difficult questions. Chaol admits he does enjoy her company and asks her to celebrate with a drink, which Nesryn accepts without much sentiment.

Nesryn then shifts the focus back to strategy, questioning why the king is suddenly sending so many magic-blooded people to Morath after years of rule. Chaol suggests Aelin’s return may have triggered the urgency, but Nesryn argues the scale suggests a much older plan. Sen proposes abandoning Rifthold and possibly joining Aelin or forming a defensive line elsewhere, but Chaol refuses to give up the city.

Before the argument can deepen, Nesryn reminds everyone that they must get the freed prisoners to the river before the waiting boats leave. Later, after the apartment has gone quiet under the full moon, Aelin secretly rises from bed without waking Rowan. She arms herself with Damaris and Goldryn, braids her hair, takes a cloak, and slips out alone like a shadow.