Xaden Rierson and his group escape through a door, and they are relieved but must keep moving according to the plan.
Everyone takes off their disguising robes, and Bodhi helps Aaric with his due to Aaric's blistered hands.
Imogen takes care of a sleeping Nasya, while Sawyer feels guilty for having to hit him, and Jesinia provides a plan to avoid suspicion.
Bodhi mentions that Aaric's burns can heal overnight with treatment, and changing plans are discussed to treat Aaric's wounds discreetly.
Jesinia agrees to take care of the laundry and they split up, Xaden and the protagonist leave to continue their mission.
As they walk, Quinn reveals her ability to use astral projection to appear as others and discusses her dragon lineage.
The group passes the infirmary without incident, then splits up even further to play their parts and avoid detection.
Xaden takes the protagonist into an alcove for a passionate kiss and they celebrate their success so far.
The protagonist shares with Xaden crucial information from Warrick's journal regarding the activation of a wardstone.
Xaden prepares to leave to share the journal's information with Brennan, and they kiss goodbye, agreeing to meet in seven days.
Feeling hopeful, the protagonist contemplates their plans, including the securing of a luminary with Xaden's help.
Nolon approaches the protagonist, offering lemonade and discussing past events, while also wondering about Xaden's whereabouts.
Nolon's behavior abruptly changes, revealing that he has drugged the protagonist's lemonade. He expresses regret but mentions that he must protect the kingdom.
As the protagonist loses consciousness, Varrish appears, tauntingly acknowledging the protagonist's predicament.