Thomas declares he will divorce his wife to marry Mia, sparking family panic because Cher is from the country’s richest family and her dowry supports the whole household. Mother urges caution. Later, a caregiver brings Cher hot milk and tells her to rest while an attendant instructs her to stall guests and meet an old acquaintance. Cher slips away to a rendezvous with Shane Shaw, commander of the Four States of Northreach. Shane confronts her about why she once "collected my body" and asks, "Will you still help me?" Cher must decide, and the answer is left unresolved.