Chapter 3

Feyre accompanies Lucien, Jurian, and the Hybern royals Dagdan and Brannagh to inspect gaps in the Spring Court's wall. She observes their military interest while privately gathering intelligence, then returns to the manor where she encounters Ianthe and learns uncomfortable truths from Lucien about his actions during Calanmai. Later, Alis helps Feyre prepare for the solstice celebration and reveals she knows more about Feyre's time away than she has disclosed.

The party rides through the spring woods to examine a gap in the wall that Feyre once used to enter the Spring Court. Lucien explains that three gaps exist along the border and one off the coast, information the Hybern royals absorb with strategic interest. Feyre notes they are interested only in land entrances and that Dagdan can winnow others short distances. She orchestrates a private conversation with Lucien in the woods, where she probes his motivations and learns that he went to Hybern partly out of guilt over her disappearance. Lucien reveals he found her melted ring and concealed it before Tamlin saw it. Back at the manor, Ianthe awaits them, having arrived that morning. Lucien helps Feyre dismount while Ianthe watches closely. When Ianthe requests to discuss plans for a solstice party honoring the guests, Feyre agrees to meet her after resting. In the gardens, Lucien confesses that during Calanmai, when Tamlin refused to participate in the Rite, Lucien took his place and completed it with Ianthe. Feyre reassures him she will keep the secret from Elain. Later, while Alis helps Feyre dress for the solstice, she comments on how thin Feyre has become and how much weight she has regained since arriving at the manor—a stark contrast to someone who was truly tortured. Alis then reveals she witnessed the Morrigan take Feyre away and that she has a cousin in the Summer Court who reported seeing Feyre healthy and happy there. When Feyre insists this was an act forced by Rhysand, Alis offers a knowing smile. Alis then makes a cryptic plea: whatever Feyre plans, she begs that her two nephews be spared. Feyre neither confirms nor denies any plans, instead claiming she only wants to heal and settle into life. Alis selects a pure white gown for Feyre to wear to the solstice celebration.