- Revealing the truth—although not in so many words—to Dr. Barlow really shakes Alek up, so Deryn comforts him as he cries and tells her about his parents.
- Deryn realizes who Alek must be, although he hasn't told her yet.
- As they talk, Deryn hints at—and Alek acknowledges—his true identity.
- Alek tells Deryn the whole story of why it was such a big deal for his father to marry a non-royal and about why he can't inherit anything.
- Alek feels he's responsible for the family squabble, and in turn, the war.
- Deryn tries to convince him that this is nonsense, but he's not convinced.
- She also tells him he's more than just a prince—he's her friend. Sniff.
- A message lizard summons Alek to help translate as the crew tries to attach the walker's engines to the ship.
- Alek gives Deryn a hug before he leaves, and Deryn realizes she really liked that hug. You know, in a more-than-friends kind of way.