Chapter 80

After the war concludes, the High Lords and human leaders hold a difficult meeting to discuss future relations, peace, and whether to rebuild the wall between their worlds. The group then returns to Velaris, where they grapple with the aftermath of battle and consider what comes next.

The chapter opens with a multi-hour meeting among the High Lords, human leaders, and Fae representatives to discuss coexistence and the possibility of rebuilding the wall. Feysand shares her story of survival, hardship, and love with the assembled group. Miryam and Drakon offer their own testimony as proof that humans and Fae can live and thrive together. Other representatives share conflicting accounts of human-Fae relations, including crimes and unforgiven hurts. The High Lords quarrel over the wall's reconstruction, with court lines being redrawn; the temporary alliance fractures as they debate. Eventually, the group decides to continue discussions at a later time and place. The representatives depart, and Feysand observes Elain watching Graysen leave without acknowledging her. Jurian appears at the estate doorway and reveals that Queen Vassa has offered him a place in her court, though he expresses doubt about the viability of a court bound to a death-lord's curse. When asked if peace is possible, Jurian offers cautious optimism. Days later, after the war camp is dismantled, Feysand's court winnows back to Velaris. The townhouse remains unchanged, but Feysand reflects that they themselves have been altered by war. Amren has returned to her normal form and personality, making crude jokes about Nesta. Nesta remains withdrawn, having barely spoken or eaten, and does not visit the healing Cassian. Feysand leaves a brief thank-you note for Tamlin via Lucien, wishing him happiness and hoping he eventually overcomes his destructive rage. Nesta retreats to her room without explanation. Feysand assures Elain that they will help Nesta when she is ready. The chapter concludes with Elain expressing her desire to build a garden, bringing hope to the group as they contemplate rebuilding and moving forward.