Celaena stares at Nehemia’s body, which is so torn up the bed is almost black with blood. Celaena wasn’t here for her friend when it mattered most, and now Nehemia is gone. Dorian steps in front of her, and she thinks about how the royal family has betrayed her and Nehemia. Someone says Celaena’s name in warning, and she turns to see Chaol. She thinks about how he knew what would happen, and she attacks him.

Chaol throws Celaena to the ground after she leaves three deep scratches down his cheek. She grabs her dagger and kicks between his legs. She then pins him to the ground and gets on top of him. She aims for his heart with her dagger, but Chaol holds her back. Chaol tells her to stop and demands that the others in the room stay away. He tells Celaena he is her friend, but she replies that he will always be her enemy. She is about to stab him when the room goes cold, and she goes still and looks away from Chaol. Another guard hits her in the head, knocking her out.