Violet and Xaden share an intimate reunion in their room in Deverelli. Because there is no source magic in the region, Xaden's powers—including his shadows, intention, and lesser magics—are inactive. This means he cannot lose control of his venin abilities, which had been the reason for the sexual boundaries they maintained over the previous six weeks. Realizing this, Xaden tells Violet he can be with her without risk, and the two passionately make love, breaking the breakfast table in the process and continuing on the floor.

In the tender aftermath, Violet suggests they could simply stay in Deverelli—she could accept Tecarus's offer, and Xaden could remain away from magic, halting his venin progression while she researches a cure. Xaden gently refuses, revealing that Sgaeyl is in pain, and he believes all the dragons are suffering from being separated from source magic. He also tells Violet he could never let her abandon everyone she loves back home.

Their private moment is interrupted by a crowd at the door: Ridoc, Cat, Dain, and Mira. Xaden answers in only a towel, unfazed by the broken table visible behind him. Ridoc teases them, referencing a broken armoire from first year, much to Mira's surprise and Violet's mortification.

Dain delivers urgent news: King Courtlyn has decided to keep Prince Halden rather than release him, disrupting the diplomatic mission. Tecarus needs Xaden because he is the only aristocrat who will be granted entry to negotiate. Despite his frustration at losing their one peaceful evening, Xaden accepts the necessity and prepares to leave with Violet. The chapter ends with an excerpt from a study on asim behavior when removed from source magic, noting rapid deterioration and death.