chapters 1-10 Summary

In chapter one, Celaena is in the mines of Endovier when she is approached by a man in black and taken into a building. She has been a slave for a year in the salt mines. The man who leads her turns out to be Chaol Westfall, Captain of the Royal Guard. From there, she is taken to see Prince Adarlan, the son of the King who imprisoned her in the first place.

In chapter two, Celaena refuses to bow before the prince. Duke Perrington, also present, forces her to the ground, but is chastised by Prince Adarlan for cruelty. The prince then formerly introduces himself to Celaena. Captain Westfall informs the Prince of Celaena's escape attempt several months ago, and the prince is stunned that she managed to survive the attempt. She considers another escape attempt in the room, but...