Rowin and Genevieve spent hours discussing Crimson Rot. Rowin shared rumors of its origins and described how it binds to Demon blood, killing hosts from within. He clarified that Knox’s post-Hunt intervention purged the Rot from Rowin’s mother temporarily, but it would return within a year. His candid answers and reminders of his efforts to protect Genevieve eased her doubts about his earlier concealment of the crow-hexed invitation.

Seeking to lift the mood, they improvised a game of bocce, which Genevieve won repeatedly. Their teasing shifted into a decision to perform for Knox’s audience to improve standing, with Genevieve consenting to a more explicit show than before. Rowin proposed a risqué version of “Fox Says,” and they engaged in a prolonged, consensual sexual encounter, using mirrors as part of the spectacle. The scene emphasized power play agreed upon by both, culminating in mutual satisfaction and visible marks that Rowin apologized for and Genevieve welcomed.

Afterward, as they dressed, they discussed the competition’s Favored status. Rowin noted only one contestant could receive Favored, even if Knox allowed pair victories elsewhere. When Genevieve asked what Sevin typically did to win, the ring warning heated rapidly.

Sevin emerged from the forest drenched in black blood, smiling widely but with eyes gone wild, unlike usual. Rowin twice urged Genevieve to run. Sevin confirmed Genevieve’s intent to win, saying it would make her fight harder, and then revealed the Familiar: an enormous silver wolf named Dante, carrying the fox Umbra in its jaws.

Dante dropped Umbra, who fled to Genevieve instead of Rowin. Sevin issued the command, “Dante. Sic,” and the wolf lunged, ending the chapter with imminent violence.