As early autumn settles over Inys, Ead awaits word from Chassar about whether she may remain at court. Meanwhile, Sabran and Aubrecht Lievelyn grow closer, attending entertainments together and displaying visible affection. However, when Sabran's monthly blood arrives, she erupts in rage—desperate to conceive an heir. Her frustration leads to sleepless nights, irritability, and avoidance of Lievelyn. Ead, now a Lady of the Bedchamber with nearly unlimited access to the queen, refuses to indulge Sabran's wishful thinking about pregnancy symptoms, choosing honesty over comfort.

One early morning, Ead visits the palace hothouse to collect autumn crocus—a fertility aid from Priory tradition—when she encounters Prince Aubrecht. They walk together to the Apothecary Garden, where Lievelyn confides his desire to take Sabran on a public progress to give alms and show herself to the people. Ead strongly advises against it, warning him about the cutthroats who have infiltrated the palace and the ongoing threat to Sabran's life. Lievelyn also asks about the rumors of a love affair between Sabran and Loth; Ead firmly denies them, insisting the two share only a sibling-like bond. Lievelyn seems reassured but remains determined about the progress idea.

During a hunt in Chesten Forest, Ead demonstrates her extraordinary archery skill by felling a hart with a single arrow through its eye, though she tries to restrain herself to avoid suspicion. The hunt ends with a joyful race back to the palace, and Sabran appears carefree for the first time in ages. That evening, Ead receives a coded message via her sand eagle Sarsun from Chassar: the Prioress has granted her leave to remain in Inys until Sabran delivers a daughter. Ead feels both relief and sorrow at choosing to stay rather than return home.

The next morning, Sabran privately tells Ead she is with child, having missed her courses. The news is kept secret from most of the court, including Lievelyn for the moment. At the Feast of Early Autumn, Sabran and Lievelyn display their affection publicly. The Dukes Spiritual appear pleased. During the feast, Sabran announces a royal progress into Ascalon to give alms and comfort her people—the very plan Lievelyn had discussed with Ead, who had counseled strongly against it. Combe chokes on his wine in shock, and Ead is filled with dread, convinced the progress will end in bloodshed.