The protagonist is reluctantly moving towards an ominous line of trees, not wanting to face the impending torment and misery.
Upon entering the trees, a white mare is waiting, which the protagonist is instructed to mount by the beast who has been guiding them.
The journey heads north toward faerie territory, Prythian, which fills the protagonist with dread as she contemplates being like a lamb among wolves.
The protagonist recalls the act of murdering a faerie, which she justifies due to the danger they present and their wickedness.
She regrets not having more ash wood, the only known weakness of faeries, as she considers how it may be her only chance of survival or escape.
The protagonist reflects on the scarcity of firsthand accounts from Prythian and the formidable power of the High Fae who govern those lands.
There's a recognition of the foolishness of humans living so close to Prythian despite the centuries-old Treaty that was meant to ensure some safety.
She is tormented by thoughts of her family's possible suffering and Nesta's potential actions to ensure survival.
The protagonist observes the beast for weaknesses but finds none, highlighting their disparity in power.
When trying to engage the beast in conversation or learn its name, she is largely ignored, which she understands given her actions against his kind.
She contemplates escape and even considers a further attack despite the risk, motivated by the desire to protect her family.
Without warning, the protagonist is rendered unconscious by magic and awakens later, bound by invisible forces, feeling trapped and resentful.
After waking, she notices a mild environment with birds chirping, which contrasts with the grim expectations of Prythian she had harbored.
Realizing it has been two days since her abduction, she is filled with anger towards the beast for enchanting her into sleep for so long.
The chapter ends with the protagonist and the beast passing through a gate that opens without assistance, symbolizing her entry into a new, uncertain reality as she continues following the beast into Prythian.