Paedyn opens the chapter recounting a dream of Adena on the eve of her wedding. Unlike her usual nightmares, the dream is sweet and comforting, and she wakes believing she has been given peace and a kind of farewell from Adena.

With Kai absent due to wedding tradition, Ellie helps Paedyn prepare. Dark, rainy weather threatens, which pleases Paedyn. Ellie braids thin plaits into Paedyn’s hair as they speak gently about happiness, grief, and the loved ones missing from the day: Kitt for Kai and Adena for Paedyn.

Paedyn dresses in a simple, ankle-length white gown with a strapless bodice and chooses Adena’s mended olive vest as the centerpiece, fulfilling her vision of a modest wedding that contrasts with her earlier coerced marriage. She feels calm and joyful rather than panicked.

Kai unexpectedly arrives despite the tradition, entering with his eyes covered and carrying porridge with blueberries. He jokes about the cost of adding fruit, then admits he wants something in return: Paedyn’s “yes” at the end of the aisle. Hearing uncertainty in Kai’s voice, Paedyn reassures him with an intense vow that she would love him “at the end of a blade” and would always say yes. Both are moved to tears, share laughter, and then part so the ceremony can proceed.

After Kai leaves, Lenny comes to escort Paedyn. They banter about his long-time nickname “Princess” for her and the secret of her royal blood, which she has shared with close friends but kept from the kingdom to avoid questioning Kai’s legitimacy. Paedyn affirms her identity as Ordinary and her choice to remain so publicly.

Walking through the blooming garden and past a familiar fountain, Lenny confirms that this small, personal wedding is what Paedyn wants. Paedyn declares, without hesitation, that she wants it desperately, embracing the intimacy and peace of the day.