Violet and her companions fly toward the Cliffs of Dralor to meet Theophanie's deadline, barely making it in time. During the flight, Tairn confirms the mission is a trap, and Violet wrestles with guilt over endangering others. As they descend, Violet sees the eastern fields near Draithus covered with hordes of gray wyvern vastly outnumbering the defending dragons and gryphons—far more than their estimates predicted. Despite the siege, the wyvern do not attack, and a line of evacuees streams from the city's western gate. Tairn also notes that Aaric's dragon Molvic has been spotted flying south along the cliffs, away from the conflict, which puzzles Violet.

On the northern field, Violet finds Teine—Mira's dragon—chained and bloodied, surrounded by a dozen wyvern. Theophanie stands before them, holding two blades against Mira, whose face is beaten and bruised. Violet, Xaden, Brennan, and Bodhi dismount and approach together. Theophanie notes the absence of Andarna and remarks that the group didn't bring the "brother" that the Sage Berwyn actually wanted. Violet claims he is on the way, and Theophanie reveals that the Sage's name is Berwyn, surprising Xaden.

Theophanie confidently predicts Violet will turn dark within minutes, speculating the catalyst will be some combination of saving Mira, defending Xaden, or revenge. Just as Theophanie declares time is up, Garrick arrives on Chradh carrying the runed Rybestad armoire containing Jack Barlowe. Garrick opens the chest, revealing Jack inside—emaciated, wan, and sedated. Violet announces that both she and Jack are present, fulfilling their end of the deal, and demands Mira and Teine's release.

Theophanie coldly corrects Violet: the deal was only to let Draithus stand, not to spare Mira's life. She tells Violet that dark wielders are careful with words—and that they also lie. Without hesitation, Theophanie slits Mira's throat.