Chapter 8

Feyre meets Rhysand's cousin Morrigan at breakfast, and Rhysand begins teaching her to read and shield against mental intrusion. During an intense lesson, he demonstrates his daemati powers by entering her mind, showing her the vulnerability of an unshielded consciousness. Afterward, he takes her to a tower chamber where maps of Prythian reveal strategic concerns about impending war.

Feyre joins Rhysand for breakfast, where he presses her to learn reading and shielding despite her resistance. Morrigan arrives, introducing herself as Rhysand's cousin and only surviving family. After Mor departs, Rhysand leads Feyre to a study alcove where he teaches her to read. He writes a flirtatious sentence—"You look absolutely delicious today, Feyre"—which he forces her to read aloud. He then demonstrates his daemati abilities by mentally intruding on her mind with claws of power, showing her how exposed she is without shields. After she forcefully ejects him, he instructs her to practice shielding. When he returns an hour later, she has made progress. Feyre then challenges him about the bargain binding her, insisting they both owe each other nothing after the events Under the Mountain. Rhysand deflects, suggesting she'll be imprisoned in the Spring Court bearing heirs for Ianthe. He leaves her to practice the alphabet and shielding exercises. Later, he leads her to a round tower chamber containing maps of Prythian and Hybern. The Night Court's territory appears blank on the tactical map. When Rhysand asks what she sees, Feyre observes the wall dividing the world. He reveals that war is coming and that her human family near the wall's border will be affected.