At nightfall in the Black Mountains, Princess Elena Galathynius watches Erawan's vast army camp across the valley while bone drums pound in the dark. Her own human army is outnumbered, afraid, and trapped, and Elena knows the allied forces cannot arrive in time to prevent a massacre.

Gavin joins Elena outside their war tent and urges Elena to flee alone, arguing that Elena's Fae heritage could let Elena live for centuries while the human soldiers will die by sword or time. Elena refuses to abandon the army or Gavin, then reveals that Elena's father is fading and no longer has the power to defeat Erawan, meaning escape would not save the continent.

When the enemy campfires suddenly go out, Elena and Gavin realize Erawan himself has arrived and will not wait until dawn to attack. Elena sees this as an opportunity and proposes crossing the valley to be captured, knowing Erawan's forces will bring Elena to him as a prized prisoner rather than suspecting an assassination attempt.

Gavin warns that Erawan is a Valg king who cannot be killed, and Elena admits the real aim may be to contain or trap him. Elena asks Gavin to come as a distraction, because Erawan's hatred for Gavin will draw his attention long enough for Elena to get past Erawan's inner defenses.

Elena insists no one can know what they are about to attempt, even if they succeed, because their plan will only delay the war for a future generation. Gavin agrees, then leaves to order Holdren to lead the army in the coming battle. Elena looks toward the darkness and prays that the distant heirs who inherit the burden of this choice will forgive her.