At a revel before the final day, Feyre waits for Rhysand’s summons, masked in paint and a gossamer gown. Tamlin silently signals her to a hidden passage, and they seize a desperate, passionate moment, intent on taking what time they have before tomorrow’s likely doom.

Rhysand appears, chastising their recklessness and threatening what Amarantha might do if they were discovered. He orders Tamlin to fix his clothing; the incriminating paint vanishes. Before leaving, Tamlin meets Feyre’s eyes and says he loves her, then departs, unable to risk more.

Sensing danger, Rhysand abruptly kisses Feyre as Amarantha and courtiers enter, ensuring any smudged paint appears to be from him. Amarantha laughs and mocks Feyre’s inconstancy while the court jeers. Rhysand dismisses Feyre to her cell; Tamlin retreats to the dais, stone-faced, refusing to look at her.

Hours later, Rhysand visits Feyre’s cell, exhausted and candid. He admits he is the High Lord of the Night Court, forced to serve as Amarantha’s harlot, and that he is run ragged by her control. He explains Amarantha contains, but does not fully access, their powers; once the curse breaks, Tamlin’s unleashed wrath could end her.

Rhysand reveals his pragmatic strategy: provoke Tamlin’s fury and avoid touching Feyre beyond her waist and arms to preserve a claim of innocence, preventing a catastrophic fight between them after Amarantha falls. He says his father killed Tamlin’s father and brothers, making him a special target for Amarantha’s cruelty, and that his goal is to protect his territory and people.

Feyre realizes Rhysand’s kiss likely saved her and Tamlin from immediate punishment by masking their tryst. As he leaves, she notes he could have demanded every week in their bargain; he replies he knows, and vanishes, leaving the stakes for tomorrow fully drawn.