Paedyn Gray and Kai remained with Kitt’s body until morning, then returned to Kai’s rooms where Paedyn bathed and comforted him. Kai, hollow with grief, reciprocated by gently washing Paedyn, and they mourned the loss of Kai’s brother and the boy Kitt once was. Paedyn distinguished her grief for Kai’s loss from any forgiveness of Kitt’s actions, acknowledging Kitt had become someone who saw her as an obstacle.

On the second day, Ilya learned of Kitt’s death, publicly framed as a tragic accident. Rumors spread, but Paedyn and Kai resolved to preserve Kitt’s image as a kind king. Amid their concern that the roses sent to Izram had unleashed the Plague, a letter arrived from Queen Z stating she had sensed and neutralized the danger, warned against future attempts, and expressed a desire for a constructive relationship, while offering curt condolences and noting Kitt’s death.

Throughout the day, Scholars pressed Kai about his coronation, but he refused to proceed before Kitt was laid to rest, revealing he did not wish to be king. That night, Kai sought solace with Gail, Jax, and Andy; the family and friends wept together, offering mutual support to Kai and Paedyn.

On the third and fourth days, the castle remained in mourning. Healers discreetly shared that Kitt had insisted on taking the Plague despite known consequences and that his mind had unraveled afterward—he was agitated, spoke to no one, and wandered at night. They explained his body was rejecting another dose, making his decline and eventual death inevitable.

Paedyn, Kai, Jax, and Andy spent long hours in Kitt’s study, absorbing the scene as he left it, minus the removed bloodied rug, and sharing memories that briefly lightened their grief. By the fifth day, Kai’s emptiness eased slightly; he thanked Paedyn for her support, and she noted his frequent gratitude. That night, Paedyn slipped Kitt’s wedding ring from her finger.

On the sixth day after Kitt’s death, Paedyn and Kai read Kitt’s letters, prepared to confront his inner thoughts and actions.