In the armory, Elspeth is told her dress is unsuitable for the planned ambush. Servants bring black riding clothes, and Elspeth reluctantly changes into a tunic, leggings, boots, cloak, and gloves. Ravyn, Elm, Jespyr, Thistle, and the others explain the plan: ride to the Black Forest, travel unseen through the mist, stop Wayland Pine’s carriage, and use Elspeth to locate the Iron Gate Card.

In the stable, Ravyn tries to help Elspeth handle a horse after Elspeth admits animals dislike her. The Nightmare taunts Elspeth and deliberately unsettles the mare, causing the horse to panic, rear, and throw Elspeth. Elspeth is bruised but not seriously injured, and the group debates whether Elspeth can continue. Because a carriage would be too loud and dangerous, Ravyn decides they must still go on horseback.

Elspeth rides with Elm, whose harsh manner makes the journey unpleasant. When the group reaches the Black Forest, they dismount and proceed on foot through thickening mist, each person relying on charms to ward off the Spirit of the Wood. Elspeth follows Ravyn’s magical lights and notices the salt-heavy air, while Ravyn explains that he believes the Spirit is neither good nor evil but a force of magic and balance.

The Nightmare privately hints at old grievances against the Rowans and the Spirit’s neglect, suggesting a larger history behind Blunder’s magic. Ravyn and the group tether the horses near the road and wait in hiding for Pine’s carriage. Ravyn gives Elspeth a knife to complete her disguise, though he says she should not need it.

As they wait, Ravyn puts on a highwayman’s mask, which forces Elspeth to remember the night Ravyn and Elm attacked her carriage. Ravyn removes the mask, apologizes, and admits he returned to the road afterward hoping to find and speak with her because he had not understood who she was or that she carried magic. Elspeth forgives him on the condition that he call her Elspeth, and their moment of reconciliation is interrupted by the signal whistles announcing approaching horsemen.