Chaol interrupts the Khagan’s meeting with his foreign trade vizier. He doubles Rolfe’s freelance order and pays using the treasure Dorian and Aelin sent him to bargain with on the Southern Continent. Chaol hopes to convince the Khagan of how profitable this war could be for him, but the Khagan sees it as manipulation and is angry. Chaol warns the Khagan that if Erilea loses the war against Perrington, the Valg will not stop. They will lay waste to the Southern Continent, too.

That afternoon, Yrene arrives at Chaol’s suite for another healing session. Chaol is in a foul mood and itching for a fight, which Yrene gladly gives him. Yrene goads Chaol by claiming he was relieved at the news that Nesryn’s return would be delayed. He hints that he feels guilt for his feelings for Yrene, which he can more easily ignore while Nesryn is away. Chaol snaps back that all Yrene will ever be is a girl from Fenharrow, unlike Aelin, who lost everything, yet “hunted down the people responsible and obliterated them” (451). Chaol implies that Yrene has done nothing with her life the past few years. Yrene’s eyes fill with tears, and she walks toward the door.