The narrator reflects on pushing the magical wards to their sustainable limits to protect Navarre, accepting that not all citizens would be covered by this protection.
Xaden visits the narrator, who is surprised and worried about his tired appearance.
Xaden jokes about being called beautiful; the narrator is flustered but insists he needs to rest.
The narrator struggles with conflicting feelings for Xaden, wanting to trust him but having to keep a distance.
Xaden bathes and the narrator tries to focus on reading a book with important historical accounts.
The narrator acknowledges her desire for Xaden and their romantic tension but is hesitant to confess her feelings.
They subtly discuss classified information regarding Navarre's defenses; Xaden is concerned for the narrator's safety.
The narrator insists she wants to help by discovering how to replicate the magical wards, believing someone must know the secret.
An argument ensues over secrets and trust; the narrator resents Xaden's secrecy as she tries to uncover information for their shared cause.
Their confrontation is interrupted by the narrator's friends, who invite her out, but the situation escalates with Xaden.
The friends witness a heated exchange as the narrator rebuffs Xaden's attempts to control the situation.
Xaden and the narrator continue their argument, with Xaden expressing frustration over the narrator's secretive research and perceived risks.
The narrator defends her choices and accuses Xaden of lacking trust, further straining their relationship.
As they head to the Archives, Xaden showcases his magical powers subtly, hinting at the intimate understanding he has with the narrator.
The narrator reflects on her scribe father's reverence for the Archives, adding an emotional layer to her mission.
They encounter Jesinia, the narrator's friend in the Archives, who lends them books on wards and ancient history.
Xaden, who can sign, converses with Jesinia and observes her reaction to the narrator's questions, assessing her trustworthiness.
The narrator loaned Jesinia a particularly sensitive book, which could have dangerous consequences, revealing her deep trust in her friend.
The couple rehashes issues of trust, with Xaden angered by the potential risks the narrator took by sharing the book.
The narrator stands by her decision, emphasizing the need for mutual trust.
The argument heats up, with both parties accusing the other of not being open and trusting, leading Xaden to leave abruptly.
The chapter concludes with the narrator waking up alone, filled with regret over their unresolved conflict, fearing for their safety in the war.