Chapter Four

Cassian meets with Mor at a riverside café in Velaris to discuss diplomatic troubles with Vallahan and the human queens. After Mor departs, Cassian lies awake contemplating his mission, while Nesta wakes disoriented in the House of Wind and struggles with traumatic memories of her past. Rhys mentally contacts Cassian late at night to check on him regarding Nesta's arrival.

Cassian meets Mor at a riverfront café in Velaris. Mor reports that Vallahan's king and queen have refused to sign the peace treaty Rhys and others spent months negotiating. She reveals that Vallahan, along with Montesere and Rask, may be considering war against the humans to expand their territory, believing humans are weak and vulnerable. Rhys has tasked Cassian with investigating what the human queens are planning. Mor suggests contacting Vassa, the ousted human queen, but notes that Lucien—who now lives with Vassa and Jurian—cannot be trusted to provide unbiased information due to his close relationships with them. Cassian accepts the assignment. During their conversation, Mor hints at some unnamed trouble regarding her father Keir's threatened visit to Velaris, and mentions that Eris has somehow bought her time by convincing Keir to delay. After Mor leaves, Cassian returns to the House of Wind and lies awake in his bed, reflecting on weapons hidden throughout the house and Azriel's silent return. Rhys contacts Cassian mentally, confirming that Nesta is asleep and will begin lessons tomorrow, with Mor to bring Cassian to Windhaven. Meanwhile, Nesta wakes in darkness, disoriented and initially panicked, believing herself back in the cottage. She gradually realizes she is in the House of Wind, observes the city below, and reflects on painful memories: her mother's words about becoming a queen, her failed engagement to Tomas and his violent behavior, her transformation into someone hardened and wolf-like, and her current hollow state. Cassian reflects anxiously on the difficult training ahead with Nesta.