As the first winter snow falls over Velaris, Feyre eats breakfast alone in the town house and realizes Rhysand has left before dawn. The snow stirs the Winter Court power within her, but when Feyre reaches for Rhysand through their bond, the silence tells Feyre that Rhysand is far from Velaris, likely continuing his postwar visits to allies.

In the kitchen, Feyre speaks with Nuala while Nuala prepares lunch. Their conversation turns to the approaching Winter Solstice, and Nuala explains that Velaris treats it as a warm, intimate holiday of food, music, presents, rest, and reflection rather than a grand ceremony. Feyre is relieved that she is not expected to attend a formal religious observance and begins thinking about gifts for her chosen family.

The quiet morning also brings back traumatic memories from the war and the year before: Rhysand saving Feyre from the Spring Court, Rhysand's death and return, Feyre's father's murder, the Illyrians killed in battle, Nesta and Cassian facing death together, and the Weaver being slain by the King of Hybern. Feyre recognizes that work has helped both Feyre and Rhysand keep grief at bay, but that the memories still break through.

After dressing, Feyre reflects on the cramped but beloved town house, now filled with shared belongings, weapons, papers, and the lingering presence of family and friends. Feyre considers the living arrangements of Elain, Nesta, and Lucien, including Lucien's unexplained injuries after visiting Tamlin and his decision to move into his own apartment in Velaris.

Feyre turns to the administrative work she has delayed and thinks about hiring a secretary, not because she dislikes serving the Night Court but because the work has become overwhelming. She recalls being sent home by Velaris charity workers after spending nearly every day helping with postwar rebuilding, housing, supplies, and winter relief; the city now has enough volunteers and has urged Feyre to rest for the holiday.

Rhysand finally answers through the bond, saying he is at Devlon's Illyrian camp. Rhysand explains that Cassian's ranting delayed his response, then cuts the conversation short because Cassian is arguing with Devlon. Feyre accepts that a report will come later and ends the chapter watching the snow fall over Velaris.