Chapter 25

Feysand makes a dramatic entrance into the Hewn City's throne room, with Feyre claiming the solitary throne while Rhysand perches on its arm, establishing dominance over the Court of Nightmares. They then meet with Keir in the council chamber to demand his Darkbringers' support for the coming war against Hybern, but Keir reveals his sympathy for Hybern's cause and attempts to leverage his army by making inappropriate advances toward Feyre—prompting Rhysand to reveal he has brought Eris, heir to the Autumn Court, to the negotiations.

Feyre arrives at the Hewn City dressed by Amren in a striking black gown. In the throne room, she is escorted by Rhysand to a solitary throne—a power play that forces the Court of Nightmares to kneel despite their shock and disdain. When courtiers test Feyre's power with their magic, she aggressively subdues them with dark talons of magic, establishing her authority and leaving several members terrified or fleeing. Amren and Nesta then depart to practice with magical artifacts. Rhysand summons Keir to a council meeting ten minutes later. In the council chamber, Keir openly admits sympathy for Hybern's cause, claiming both kingdoms are trapped and stagnant. When Rhysand offers him the palace atop the mountain, Keir implies his true asking price involves Feyre herself, suggesting Rhysand "whored himself to Amarantha" and questioning what he would offer regarding his mate. The darkness in Rhysand's response is lethal—he threatens Keir's life and demonstrates his power by leaving deep claw marks in the glass table. Rhysand then has a servant bring in Eris, heir to the Autumn Court, shocking Mor and catching Azriel's attention, though Azriel shows no surprise at the arrival.