Rhysand walks with Morrigan through the ruined estates along the Sidra, where Hybern’s attack left once-familiar homes reduced to rubble. Mor asks whether the displaced families plan to return, and Rhysand explains that many are staying at other estates and may never rebuild in Velaris.

The conversation turns to Keir, whom Rhysand expects will eventually come to Velaris, likely in the spring. Mor is disturbed by the prospect but says she trusts Rhysand, while also wishing there had been another way. Rhysand reflects that he needed Keir’s Darkbringers during the war and must now honor his side of that bargain, despite Keir’s cruelty and his desire to torment Mor.

Rhysand offers to arrange for Mor to be away when Keir visits, but Mor refuses to let Keir interpret her absence as hiding. Rhysand promises support, notes that Azriel and Cassian have already been preparing security, and the tension eases briefly as Mor and Rhysand joke about Amren, Solstice gifts, and Rhysand’s inability to choose a present for Feyre.

Rhysand then asks Mor for help beyond the Court of Nightmares. Treaty negotiations have stalled, and Rhysand wants Mor to make diplomatic visits to kingdoms and territories that might threaten human lands, using persuasion backed by the Night Court’s power. Mor worries that the assignment might be a way to remove her from Keir’s path, but Rhysand insists her talents are needed elsewhere and frames the request as an offer rather than an order.

Mor admits that being near Keir and Eris together feels comparable to Rhysand being near Tamlin. Rhysand says Mor has time to decide, though Mor seems willing to go wherever she is needed. The chapter ends with Mor looking east toward the continent, quietly wondering whether leaving would mean Keir wins or whether something else might be waiting for her beyond the Night Court.