After Celaena reveals that the king has ordered Archer Finn’s death, Archer panics, draws a hidden dagger, and insists he is not part of any rebel movement. Hoping to save himself, Archer offers information about another group in Rifthold that is gaining power and may be trying to stop some new horror the king is planning.

Archer says the group wants to restore Aelin Galathynius, the lost heir of Terrasen, to the throne. Celaena is shaken by the possibility, though she tells herself Aelin must be dead or the supposed heir must be an impostor. Archer’s news also connects uneasily with Nehemia’s earlier comments about Terrasen, but Celaena decides the movement is worth investigating because it may lead to clues about the king’s plans.

Celaena chooses not to kill Archer. Instead, she gives Archer two options: fake his death immediately and flee, or spend four weeks settling his affairs while secretly gathering information for Celaena. Archer accepts the month-long reprieve and tells Celaena about a ball the next night where she may be able to search a client’s office and learn more about the Terrasen rebels.

Celaena warns Archer to be discreet and threatens to kill Archer if he tries to flee or draws attention. After leaving Archer, Celaena returns to the castle and visits Chaol’s bedroom late at night, where Chaol has clearly been waiting anxiously for her.

Celaena tells Chaol part of what Archer revealed, including the rumors about the lost heir of Terrasen and the upcoming ball, but hides Archer’s innocence, the details about Aelin raising an army, and Celaena’s own plan to investigate the king. When Chaol tells Celaena to be careful, Celaena snaps that she can protect herself, and Chaol finally admits that Chaol worries because he cares about her. Celaena is left startled by the confession.