Summary

In Chapter 38, Emerie believes Nesta and Cassian had sex, based on the “sultry looks” they are exchanging. Nesta admits it. Cassian chastises them for chatting instead of training. The females are amazed when Cassian says he trained for seven years before he began to use a sword. He invites Nesta to work out with the training sword. She is surprised at its weight, but is quickly caught up in learning the new moves. As she works, she imagines the things that have tormented her, including the King of Hybern, the Cauldron, the kelpie, and everyone who had been pleased when Nesta's family fell into poverty. She is enthralled with the feeling of control and power. Gwyn and Emerie apparently understand what Nesta is feeling and Cassian readies swords for them as they cross the training ground.

In Chapter 39, Nesta battles the “fire inside...