Chapter 33

Elain's visions reveal the existence of a sixth human queen, Vassa, who has been cursed and transformed into a firebird by day and human by night, held captive by a sorcerer-lord at a lake on the continent. Lucien volunteers to journey across the mortal lands to find Vassa and potentially secure her as an ally against Hybern. Meanwhile, Rhys struggles with guilt over his failure to protect Velaris from the day's attack.

The chapter opens with recognition that Elain is a Seer, capable of perceiving truths others cannot. Through questioning, the group discovers that Elain's visions have been showing them a sixth human queen, Vassa, whom the other queens cursed and sold to a sorcerer-lord. By day Vassa transforms into a firebird with burning feathers; by night she returns to human form. She is held captive at a lake deep within the continent, surrounded by other women with white feathers. The sorcerer-lord possesses an onyx box that Elain senses is vital. Azriel confirms that Vassa rules Scythia, a small but trade-rich realm to the east along the wall, and is in her mid-twenties. A debate ensues about whether pursuing Vassa is worth the time and resources, with Cassian arguing they should focus on the upcoming High Lords meeting, while Mor insists the Seer's visions indicate Vassa's importance. Lucien unexpectedly volunteers to undertake the quest himself, citing his metal eye's ability to perceive spells and glamours, and his lack of belonging in either the Autumn or Spring Courts. Despite warnings about the danger, Lucien commits to departing the next morning, with Rhys agreeing to winnow him as close as possible to begin the hunt. Later, Rhys bathes away blood from the day's attack while confessing his sense of failure in protecting Velaris and the priestesses sheltering there. Feyre reassures him that the attack is Hybern's responsibility, not his own, and reminds him they will prepare and move forward.