Loth and Kit finally meet Donmata Marosa in her court several days after their arrival. The Donmata’s head is encased in an enormous “horned mask of iron” (184), and the atmosphere of her court is hostile. The only person who seems friendly is Lady Priessa, the Donmata’s chief lady-in-waiting. The Donmata tells Loth that she has not been invited to Sabran’s upcoming wedding. Loth is surprised to learn that Sabran is getting married, but he conceals his reaction. Loth asks the princess about the whereabouts of Wilstan Fynch, the ambassador to Yscalin and Sabran’s father, but she professes ignorance.

The Donmata then commands Priessa to dance with Loth. During the dance, Priessa slips a piece of parchment into Loth’s hand: The message asks Loth to later meet Priessa near the palace library. When Loth reaches the spot, he is surprised to find a different woman in Priessa’s robes. Her long black hair and topaz eyes give the woman away as the Donmata. The Donmata tells Loth she has no option but to meet him in secret, since Yscalin not only worships the Nameless One but is under forced Draconic rule. Her father, the king, is in thrall to Fýredel.