Chapter 9

Feyre returns home after a week at the Night Court, where Rhysand has revealed plans of war with the King of Hybern and suggested she possesses inherited powers from the seven High Lords. Tamlin immediately interrogates her about the Night Court's layout and defenses, forcing her to betray Rhysand's trust while he refuses to allow her training or involvement in any coming conflict.

Rhysand confronts Feyre about the incoming war with the King of Hybern, explaining that the mortal lands beyond the wall are Hybern's true target and that Prythian stands in his way. He reveals Hybern has been planning conquest for over a century, with Amarantha's forty-nine-year reign serving as a test of control. Rhysand states he doesn't know when or where Hybern will strike, but suspects he has allies within Prythian. He asks Feyre to act as a go-between with Tamlin regarding potential alliance and mentions her potential powers—suggesting she may have inherited abilities from all seven High Lords that could make her a High Lady or similar figure. During the week Feyre spends alone, she practices shielding and writes sentences about Rhysand. She overhears Mor report to Rhysand about murders at a temple in Cesere, where priestesses were slain and treasures looted. Rhysand transforms, revealing his bat-like wings in rage, and mentions hunting down traitorous Illyrians. When Feyre returns home, Tamlin is frantic with relief but quickly pivots to interrogation, demanding she describe the Night Court's layout, inhabitants, weapons, and every word Rhysand spoke. Lucien assists in the questioning. Feyre reveals information about the King of Hybern, the temple attack, and Cassian and Azriel's names. When she mentions her potential powers, Lucien warns that other High Lords would kill her to prevent her from possessing such strength. Despite Feyre's arguments that training could help her defend against Hybern, Tamlin refuses, insisting she stay away from any conflict and that he will protect her instead. The chapter ends with Feyre capitulating to Tamlin's authority, though conflicted.