The chapter opens with Cassian anticipating an approaching storm in Windhaven, disrupting the usual Solstice preparations. He halts training exercises and limits patrols to only the most skilled warriors, aware that enemies might strike despite the harsh weather. The camp braces for being snowed in for days, prompting Cassian to visit the craftsman center to procure winter supplies. The scene sets a tone of urgency and practicality, highlighting Cassian’s leadership and foresight in protecting his people.

Cassian enters Emerie’s clothier shop, noting its relative newness and the warmth inside. He is immediately struck by the scars on Emerie’s wings, evidence of the brutal Illyrian tradition of clipping females’ wings. Despite this, Emerie meets his gaze with defiance, reminiscent of Nesta’s unyielding demeanor. Cassian learns that her father, Proteus, died in the war, leaving her to inherit the shop—a rare occurrence in Illyrian society, where females seldom hold such roles. Their interaction reveals Emerie’s resilience and Cassian’s respect for her strength.

Cassian observes the well-stocked shop, realizing Emerie’s business struggles due to the camp’s biases. He decides to buy all her winter gear, offering payment without condescension. Emerie initially resists charity but accepts the transaction on her terms, meticulously calculating the cost. Cassian’s gesture reflects his understanding of Illyrian pride and his desire to support those marginalized by their own culture. The exchange underscores the tension between tradition and progress in Illyrian society.

In a final act of generosity, Cassian pays Emerie to distribute the winter supplies to those most vulnerable in the camp before the storm hits. Emerie, though wary of her unpopularity, agrees to the task, showing a willingness to help her community. The chapter closes with Cassian’s quiet admiration for Emerie’s courage and a sense of hope for change in Illyrian attitudes. Their partnership hints at potential future collaboration, bridging divides within the camp.

The chapter opens with the anticipation of an impending storm, which is felt by Cassian and the camp inhabitants even before it arrives. The weather prompts a flurry of activity as people prepare their homes and adjust their routines to brace for the brutal winds and snow. Cassian, recognizing the storm’s severity, makes the decision to give the girls a day off from training, emphasizing the potential danger even in peaceful times. Limited patrols continue, highlighting the constant threat of enemies who might take advantage of the chaos, underscoring the tense, vigilant atmosphere in the camp as they await the storm’s arrival.

Cassian’s visit to the local clothier is driven by a specific purpose: to find winter gear. Upon entering, he is immediately struck by the store’s appearance and the presence of Emerie, Proteus’s daughter. Her scars and confident, unyielding stare evoke a sense of resilience and strength, reminiscent of Nesta. Emerie’s response to Cassian’s inquiry about her father reveals her loss and independence—she has taken over the shop, asserting her authority in a male-dominated environment. Her demeanor and posture reflect a defiance that hints at her inner strength and determination to forge her own path, despite her tragic history.

As Cassian observes her, he recognizes her as someone who embodies both resilience and independence. He proceeds to purchase winter supplies, but his gesture is more than mere commerce; it’s an act of kindness and recognition of her situation. Cassian’s offer to pay for her goods, and his subsequent insistence on giving her extra coins to distribute among those in need, demonstrate his understanding of the hardships faced by the camp’s residents. The interaction reveals a moment of connection and mutual respect, with Cassian subtly acknowledging the social divides and her role in the community.

In the closing moments, Emerie’s cautious acceptance of Cassian’s assistance underscores the complexities of their relationship. Despite her initial reluctance, she begins to see his actions as genuine concern. Cassian’s careful generosity—providing supplies and money for distribution—reflects his broader awareness of the camp’s struggles and his desire to support those most vulnerable. The chapter concludes with a quiet acknowledgment of her resilience and the unspoken understanding that, even amidst hardship, acts of kindness can forge unexpected bonds.