Chapter 18

Summary

• The protagonist starts the day by checking that the blood from the previous night's events has been cleaned up.
• She is determined to find Tamlin and apologize for her role in the death of Andras.
• As she contemplates the beauty of the reflecting pool, she muses about painting it when she receives her art supplies.
• Tamlin and Lucien appear, discussing patrol matters. Lucien leaves without interacting much with the protagonist.
• The protagonist notices her art supplies haven't arrived yet, but Tamlin gestures towards saddled horses, indicating they have plans.
• Tamlin proposes a ride out—specifically one without violence or danger.
• The protagonist questions where Tamlin buried the deceased faerie, reflecting on his nature.
• The place Tamlin brings her to overwhelms her senses, its beauty providing needed solace after recent traumatic events.
• At the glen, she chooses to feel the grass rather than sit on a blanket, seeking a more authentic experience.
• While at the glen, she and Tamlin share a moment of light banter, including references to their interactions with the Suriel, a mystical creature.
• Tamlin takes her to see a glimmering pool of what appears to be liquid starlight, which he invites her to swim in.
• We learn a bit of Lucien's tragic past, involving a murdered loved one and betrayal by his family.
• The protagonist contemplates swimming in the pool, ultimately deciding to take a swim as a way of embracing a new side of herself.
• They share personal stories with each other while swimming in the pool of starlight.
• On the ride back, the protagonist cautiously broaches a conversation with Lucien, acknowledging his advice about the Suriel and indicating there's no ill will between them.
• Lucien tosses her a jeweled hunting knife as a token, apologizing for hesitating to help her during the incident with the Suriel.