In a depressive slump, FitzChivalry is drinking. Ranting against injustices, Chade, Nighteyes, Kettle, and the Fool all tolerate him. Kettricken has summoned him before her to report and Fitz is once again not in control of his life. However, the night before that meeting, Fitz is drawn into a very strong Skill dream involving Verity and a magic river.