Raeve attends a Tithe in Dhomm and watches from the back of the hall while Kaan sits on the bronze throne in King Ostern's absence. Instead of merely collecting offerings, Kaan speaks with each person individually and gives generously to those who have little, including a struggling young family. Raeve is struck by the fairness and grace with which Kaan handles the ceremony.

Kaan's conduct makes Raeve think of the way Mah and Pah once ruled their own kingdom, and the comparison brings on a sharp wave of homesickness. Raeve remembers that Pah never respected King Ostern because he believed Ostern disregarded people who could not hear the elemental songs. After seeing Kaan's compassion, Raeve decides that Pah would have respected Ostern's eldest son even if he did not respect the king himself.

When Kaan notices Raeve across the hall, the look they share overwhelms Raeve with desire. Fearing that others will notice her reaction, Raeve slips behind a pillar to recover herself. The moment forces Raeve to confront how little her old restraints still matter: after nearly two phases of living like a shadow in the Stronghold, Raeve resolves to stop denying what Raeve wants, even if that desire is forbidden.