Under moonlight, Kai climbs a tree to reach Paedyn Gray's window in the Izram castle, risking a fall to see her. After playful banter recalling past injuries and loved ones, he enters and kisses Paedyn, and the two share a fervent embrace that eases recent tensions. They briefly discuss the ship's precarious condition and their impending departure the next day, acknowledging the risk that the voyage might be their last.

The conversation turns to grief when Kai mentions calling Ava "A," mirroring Paedyn's nickname for Adena. They affirm their shared losses and vow not to leave each other, with Kai promising that even death would not separate him from Paedyn. They spend the night together.

At dawn, as Kai tries to slip away, Queen Zailah is already seated in the room, having witnessed enough to gauge the situation. Kai reaches for Paedyn's dagger at the sudden presence, but Zailah remains composed, amused, and observant. She says she likes Paedyn partly because Paedyn killed Edric Azer, and she needles Kai with knowledge of his abusive past under his father.

Zailah presses Kai about whether Kitt knows what is happening and bluntly interprets Kai's presence as evidence he is in love with his brother's betrothed. Kai insists he is fulfilling his duty as Paedyn's Enforcer, but Zailah rejects the notion that love and duty can fully coexist, telling him to choose between the girl and power and to decide whether Paedyn is worth the destruction of who he is.

After delivering this ultimatum, Zailah dismisses Kai and declares she will have breakfast with a fellow queen, implying esteem for Paedyn's status. As Kai leaves, Zailah pointedly remarks on his attractiveness, underscoring her control of the encounter.