In this chapter, Dickon wastes some time frolicking in the forest, having sex again with Erato and getting a chance to "mark" the mysterious woman at the river. The next day, however, he nearly loses his life during his next romp with the Leanan Sidhe - saved by the bell, or, rather, the Belle, who summons the Crone to his assistance and, in doing so, provides Dickon with another surprising clue as to the Crone's origins.