Chaol receives news about a pivotal naval battle between Aelin and Maeve, delivered by the smug Princess Hasar. Though initially furious and half-dressed, he controls his temper as Hasar reveals that Maeve’s forces were decisively defeated. A third of Maeve’s armada, flying Whitethorn banners, switched sides to join Terrasen’s fleet. Dorian fought alongside Rowan, and wyverns led by Manon Blackbeak unexpectedly aided Aelin’s forces. Chaol is relieved but remains tense, piecing together the implications of this victory for the war’s trajectory.

The battle’s details emerge: Dorian and Rowan wielded ice, wind, and water magic, while Lysandra’s shape-shifting abilities were also noted. Notably absent were Aelin’s flames and Maeve’s dark powers, though fleeting sightings of both were reported onshore. Chaol deduces that Aelin likely drew Maeve away from the fleet to minimize casualties and unleash her full power. Hasar confirms Aelin’s survival and her armada’s northward journey, possibly toward Terrasen. Chaol offers silent gratitude to the gods for sparing Dorian and Aelin, though the uncertainty of Maeve’s whereabouts lingers.

Hasar drops another bombshell: Aelin has called in debts from the Silent Assassins of the Red Desert and Wendlyn, the latter sending its entire armada under Crown Prince Galan. Chaol is overwhelmed by the scale of Aelin’s alliances, his emotions raw as he exchanges a hopeful glance with Yrene. Hasar muses on the widespread belief in Aelin’s vision, hinting at the queen’s ability to inspire loyalty across kingdoms. The revelation underscores Aelin’s strategic brilliance and the growing coalition against their enemies.

The chapter closes with Hasar revealing Aelin’s message to her: a promise of “a better world.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates Aelin’s rallying cry and the hope she represents. Chaol, though shaken, recognizes the magnitude of Aelin’s influence and the unity she has forged. The chapter highlights pivotal victories, strategic alliances, and the enduring theme of hope amidst war, setting the stage for the conflicts and collaborations to come.

The chapter opens with Chaol’s tense confrontation, where he struggles to maintain composure despite his limited clothing and the smirking princess’s provocation. He demands answers about recent events, revealing a fierce naval battle between Aelin and Maeve. The scene underscores Chaol’s concern for Aelin’s safety and his internal conflict as he processes the chaos unfolding around him. The dialogue hints at the high-stakes nature of the conflict, with Aelin demonstrating her strategic prowess in the face of Maeve’s formidable forces. The chapter sets a tone of tension and anticipation, emphasizing the importance of the ongoing war and the alliances at play.

The narrative details the battle’s outcome, highlighting Aelin’s strategic brilliance and the unexpected allies that turned the tide. It is revealed that a significant portion of Maeve’s fleet defected to Terrasen, which played a crucial role in the victory. Dorian and Rowan fought valiantly alongside Aelin, and wyverns appeared unexpectedly to aid her cause. The report emphasizes the impressive display of magic—ice, wind, water—and the absence of darker elements like fire or shadow, suggesting Aelin’s calculated approach to minimize casualties and maximize her strategic advantage. The chapter underscores the importance of these tactical moves and the unpredictable nature of the battlefield.

Further reports indicate that Maeve’s forces were defeated and dispersed, with Maeve herself retreating or sailing away. Aelin’s return to her fleet and their subsequent departure northward mark a pivotal moment, signaling a shift in the war’s momentum. The chapter hints at Aelin’s ability to shift the conflict to less accessible locations, perhaps to protect her forces and unleash her full power. The focus on the aftermath emphasizes the resilience and adaptability of Aelin’s strategy, as well as the ongoing danger posed by Maeve’s retreat and possible future threats. The narrative builds anticipation for the next phase of the conflict.

The chapter concludes with revelations about the broader alliances Aelin has secured through debts owed to her. It is disclosed that she has called in support from the Silent Assassins of the Red Desert and the Wendlyn fleet, commanded by Crown Prince Galan himself. This revelation excites Chaol and Yrene, as it signifies a substantial increase in Aelin’s military strength and influence. The chapter ends with Hasar’s cryptic remark that many believe in Aelin’s vision of a better world, revealing her promise of a brighter future. The chapter underscores themes of alliance-building, strategic diplomacy, and the hope that drives Aelin’s campaign for a new world order.