Rowan finds Lorcan on the apartment roof in the middle of the night. Lorcan has killed all the Wyrdhounds who’ve come after him. He convinces Rowan to exchange the Valg immunity ring for the Amulet of Orynth, but Rowan gives him a fake amulet with dead Valg Commander Stevan’s ring inside. This ring also radiates an otherworldly power similar to the Wyrdkeys, so Lorcan doesn’t realize the difference.

Aelin and Chaol have a genuine talk, where he apologizes for his recent behavior and his failure to protect her friend, Nehemia. Aelin apologizes as well and admits that his friendship means a lot to her. They come to terms with the end of their romantic relationship; each believes the other deserves happiness.

Afterward, Chaol goes to a temple with Nesryn, where he suggests a relationship and she agrees. Nesryn makes Chaol promise to survive the storming of the castle tomorrow.

The plan is for Rowan and Aedion to set off hellfire in the sewers beneath the tower while Chaol and Aelin kill the king and Dorian. Aelin and Rowan kiss and he holds her through the night.