Chapter 16: Rhysand

Feyre shops for Solstice gifts with Elain and encounters a weaver grieving her husband's death in the war. The weaver's creation of two fabrics—Void (representing darkness) and Hope (representing light)—profoundly moves Feyre and clarifies what she wants to give Rhysand. She later discovers her secret painting studio and reflects on her desire to teach others to paint. The chapter ends with Feyre attempting to convince Amren to encourage Nesta to attend Solstice celebrations.

Feyre and Elain browse Velaris while shopping for Solstice gifts. In a weaver's shop, Feyre discovers a remarkable black fabric called Void, woven by a High Fae artist. When Feyre inquires about it, the weaver reveals she created it after her husband died in the war—he had voluntarily joined a Summer Court legion and fell at Adriata. The weaver explains she also wove silver thread called Hope through the darkness, and that she must continue creating or despair would consume her entirely. This conversation deeply affects Feyre, who realizes she nearly lost Rhysand and is grateful he survived. She purchases the Void and Hope tapestry as a gift for herself. After browsing with Elain, Feyre goes to paint in the abandoned studio in the Rainbow, where she is discovered by Ressina, the caretaker. Ressina mentions the studio belonged to Polina, who died in the spring attack, and suggests Feyre's family could purchase it. Upon leaving the studio, Feyre runs into Rhysand on the street. She confesses about the painting space and discusses with him the idea of teaching others to paint as a form of healing. Later, Feyre visits Amren, who is completing a five-thousand-piece jigsaw puzzle. Feyre asks Amren about Nesta and expresses concern about her sister's refusal to attend Solstice. Amren refuses to gossip but advises Feyre to give Nesta time and space, insisting she will not betray Nesta's confidence. The chapter ends with Feyre leaving a message requesting Nesta's attendance at Solstice celebrations, though Amren makes no promises to deliver it.