The chapter opens with Talasyn reflecting on her discomfort in the elaborate Nenavarene finery she's been dressed in, though she finds it worthwhile when Alaric recognizes her as Alunsina Ivralis and is visibly stunned. She observes his approach—noting his striking, simple black attire—and relishes his shock. Briefly, she catches a flash of what looks like relief on his face before he accuses her of setting a trap. His companion Sevraim also recognizes Talasyn and tries to rush the platform but is stopped by the Dominion guards.

Queen Urduja explains that Talasyn was identified by a garrison captain who noticed her resemblance to her late mother, and that she came to Nenavar seeking sanctuary after the Hurricane Wars. Talasyn taunts Alaric, saying she has him to thank for her reunion with her family. Alaric demands to know if other Sardovians, including Ideth Vela, are hiding in the Dominion, but Talasyn lies smoothly, saying she was separated from them. Alaric realizes he cannot demand to search the Dominion without insulting Urduja and undermining diplomacy. Urduja sharply reminds both of them to stop making a scene.

Negotiations move to the council room. Urduja addresses the history of Nenavarene warships sailing to aid the Lightweavers eighteen years ago, declaring those responsible were rogue elements now dealt with, and pledging good faith. Alaric agrees to treat it as ancient history, though he notices Talasyn and Elagbi react strangely to Urduja's mention of rogue elements. Chief negotiator Lueve Rasmey formally opens the talks, framing them as traditional marriage negotiations despite Commodore Mathire's objections. The reality that Alaric is negotiating to marry Talasyn fully sinks in for both of them.

Elagbi states two non-negotiables: Dominion sovereignty must be preserved, and Talasyn must be treated with kindness and respect. Alaric agrees she will be treated according to her behavior. Talasyn erupts, calling Alaric a "cruel, pompous ass" and listing his war crimes. Alaric responds coldly, questioning whether she still considers herself Sardovian and warning that if she refuses the alliance, they'll meet again on the battlefield. Urduja intervenes, adjourning the meeting and inviting the Kesathese delegation to stay in the palace.

After the Kesathese leave, Urduja's advisors discuss the encounter. Niamha Langsoune observes that Talasyn uniquely rattles Alaric, suggesting this could be used strategically, and teases Talasyn about "passion," embarrassing her. Urduja sternly warns Talasyn that Kesath's void magic and wounded dragon mean Nenavar cannot afford a war, and commands her to govern her pride. Meanwhile, Alaric confers with Mathire and Sevraim in his palace quarters, where sariman cages block the Shadowgate. Mathire insists the situation is a Sardovian trick and urges a search of the Dominion. Alaric decides to wait until after the marriage terms are settled before making that request. When Sevraim asks if Alaric will truly marry a sworn enemy, Alaric stoically replies he will do what he must for the Night Empire.