Chapter 62

In the aftermath of Hybern's attack on Velaris, Rhysand's court gathers to assess the damage and plan their counter-attack. Amren decodes the method to nullify the Cauldron, and the group devises a mission to infiltrate Hybern's castle. Rhysand and Feyre deepen their bond, and he offers her his family heirloom—a star sapphire ring that once belonged to his mother—cementing their mating and future together.

The chapter opens in the early morning hours following the battle. Rhysand reports that Velaris's wards have been restored, though the city bears heavy scars. The exhausted court members—Cassian, Amren, Azriel, and Mor—gather to discuss their next steps. Cassian raises concerns about the exposure of Velaris and how long they can remain secure. Feyre adds that defending the city becomes difficult if everyone goes to destroy the Cauldron. Amren volunteers to stay behind and hold Velaris, confident the newly rebuilt wards will hold better than before. The group resolves to sleep, eat, and prepare for retaliation. Feyre finds Rhysand alone on the roof, tormented by guilt over the attack. She comforts him, and they make love under the stars. The next day, Amren reveals the words needed to nullify the Cauldron by touching it. She also warns that assembling both pieces of the Book of Breathings together would unleash catastrophic power that could awaken ancient, dangerous entities. Cassian proposes a swift infiltration plan: Mor and Azriel will winnow the group to the coast near Hybern's castle, they'll fly in while Rhysand remains outside to avoid detection, Feyre will nullify the Cauldron, and they'll escape via the bond. Rhysand initially bristles at staying behind while Feyre enters danger, but ultimately respects her autonomy and approves the mission. Later, as Feyre heads upstairs, Rhysand proposes they share a bedroom going forward. He then presents her with his mother's star sapphire ring—an heirloom meant only for a female worthy enough to retrieve it from the Weaver, whom Rhysand had tasked Feyre with testing. Feyre realizes she won the ring unknowingly. Concerned about the ring's visibility potentially compromising Rhysand during the Hybern mission, she decides to wear it only after the Cauldron is destroyed. She then expresses her desire to fully formalize their bond with a declaration, marriage ceremony, and celebration in Velaris.