In "Peace Talks", Murphy has not recovered from the crippling injuries inflicted on her by Nicodemus, and may never return to her former ability. Nevertheless, she still has her mind and cunning, and pitches in to aid Harry in her time of need. She is also completely ready to take the next step with Harry... who finds himself unable to at first, since doing so would be very painful for her physically, and he is unwilling to cause her that pain. They do take the next step in their relationship, eventually, which results in Harry acquiring the protection of true love against White Court vampires. This is Harry’s conclusion based on the fact that Lara Raith accidentally touches him later on and she gets burned by the contact.