Two days after Solstice, the storm has cleared, and Rhysand visits the Windhaven training rings with Cassian and Azriel. As Devlon promised, six Illyrian girls, ages roughly twelve to sixteen, are present for weapon training, though Devlon gives halfhearted instruction and the girls are visibly uncomfortable.

Rhysand notices Illyrian bows stacked nearby and reflects on how difficult those weapons are even for many males. Rhysand silently resolves that if any girl chooses to learn the bow, Rhysand will personally oversee her training.

Azriel observes that Rhysand expected more girls, but Cassian explains that some families are still away for Solstice. The conversation turns to Azriel’s report on possible troublemakers in the Illyrian camps. The list is worse than expected, especially at Ironcrest, where Kallon, a lord’s son and warrior-novice, is stirring dissent against Cassian and Rhysand.

Rhysand and Azriel have suggested dangerous ways Kallon might be dealt with, but Cassian refuses to dishonor the Blood Rite or arrange an accident. Cassian insists that if Kallon wants to challenge Cassian, Kallon should do it openly.

Rhysand tells Cassian that, despite the camp grumbling, the girls’ presence is a good sign. Cassian answers that it will only be a true success when twenty girls attend consistently for a month. Azriel begins to make a bet, but Cassian stops Azriel because the issue is too personal and painful for Cassian.

Rhysand reassures Cassian that reform will come through small steps. Rhysand recognizes that Cassian’s mission to change Illyrian treatment of females touches an old wound, and Rhysand ends by seeing these small advances as vital not only for the Illyrians but for their world’s future.