During the ball, Paedyn, intoxicated and giddy after dancing with Jax, approaches King Kitt and Prince Kai. Despite their protests, she loudly “decrees” a new tradition: a three-person dance between herself, Kitt, and Kai. The three link arms and spin together, and their informal joy spreads to the rest of the court, turning the floor into clusters of laughing dancers. Kitt and Kai eventually lift Paedyn, and she revels in the moment, focusing on Kai’s loving gaze and Kitt’s hopeful smile.

In hazy flashes later that night, Paedyn recalls being carried in strong arms—implied to be Kai—who repeatedly tells her he loves her while returning her lost shoes. The next morning, Paedyn wakes with a severe hangover. Kitt is in her room, having wagered with Kai about when she would wake, and he brings Gail’s foul-tasting remedy and water. He notes that he and Kai have used the remedy many times and checks on her condition.

Kitt tells Paedyn he will address the court about her next Trial, explaining that benevolence will take longer to prove than bravery, so he is starting it sooner. Paedyn, anxious, asks about the prior night; Kitt says she returned near five in the morning and that Kai carried her upstairs. When Paedyn complains about Blair’s presence, Kitt insists Blair will remain and praises Paedyn for getting the court to enjoy themselves. Before leaving, Kitt points out porridge Kai suggested—topped with blueberries that Kai dislikes—further indicating Kai’s care.

Ellie arrives to help Paedyn prepare. Ellie reveals Kai stayed by Paedyn’s bedside until and long after she fell asleep. Paedyn bathes, dresses in a green gown with covered scars, and is escorted by Kitt to the throne room, where the court gathers. Among those present are Calum and his daughter, Mira, who acknowledges Paedyn coolly.

On the dais, Kitt announces Paedyn’s second Trial: she must cross the Shallows Sea to the city of Izram to establish peace and open trade, leveraging Ilya’s newly opened borders. The court applauds the bold mission, while Paedyn silently absorbs the danger of the treacherous crossing. She notices Kai in the crowd—his features tight with fear as he looks her over, then anger when he sees her fingers interlaced with Kitt’s for show.

Unable to mask his reaction, Kai looks away and abruptly leaves the throne room. Paedyn feels unmoored by his departure as the announcement continues and her perilous second Trial looms.