On a snowy morning at the Archeron estate, Feyre goes into the forest with Rhysand because she has decided to begin training the powers she received from the High Lords. Rhys shows Feyre a real map at her request, pointing out the Illyrian Steppes and Velaris, which reminds Feyre that he once concealed such information when she still lived under Tamlin’s control. Once they are far enough from the house to avoid notice or harm, Rhys sets a candle in the snow and tells Feyre to try to light it, extinguish it with water, and dry the wick using magic.

Feyre admits she cannot do any of that and asks instead about physical shielding, but Rhys insists that this day should be used to test other powers. He suggests shape-shifting, and Feyre sharply rejects the idea, revealing that this power is emotionally charged for her. Because Rhys’s presence is distracting and powerful enough that she can feel him nearby, Feyre asks him to leave. After teasing her about using the bond and the tattoo to contact him, Rhys vanishes and leaves her to practice alone.

Left in the frost-covered woods, Feyre tries for an hour to summon fire or water by focusing on anger and revulsion, especially thoughts of Ianthe, but nothing happens. Frustrated, she takes a break and discovers that Rhys packed food for her along with a note asking whether she has managed any sparks. Using the paper as a back-and-forth through the bond, Feyre and Rhys exchange playful messages about Cassian and Nesta arguing over tea, their supposed day off, and Rhys’s shameless flirting. The lightness of the exchange makes Feyre smile and wait for his next reply.

That moment of distraction leaves Feyre vulnerable. While she is focused on her palm, someone comes up behind her, clamps a hand over her mouth, and hauls her off the ground. Feyre fights back, but the attacker is too strong and threatens to snap her neck if she resists. When the creature speaks, Feyre recognizes the nightmare voice immediately: the Attor has found her.