While Rowin changed, Genevieve hid the tome she had taken from the Silvers’ library in her trunk and sat to write in her diary. When her pen ran dry, she searched Rowin’s desk for ink, accidentally triggering a hidden compartment. Inside she found a cache of letters in Rowin’s handwriting: one to Ellin confessing failure to progress on a cure and fear of Knox’s reprisals, a terse plea to Remi about their rift, and a supplication to Grave urging him to consider the rumors and their mother’s wishes. The letters dated back years, suggesting Rowin’s sustained efforts. She also noticed an envelope sealed with a rose and addressed to Grimm Manor in New Orleans before hastily closing the drawer as Rowin returned.

Rowin rested with Umbra while Genevieve pretended to read her grimoire, preoccupied by the letters. Sevin and Covin barged in with snacks and whiskey, and the four played Pit until midnight, briefly easing the tension. At the stroke of midnight the family assembled in the ballroom with Ellin, Remi, and Grave already present. Knox arrived with the Hunting Blade, announcing Wellington’s assignment in Nocturnia, which enraged Ellin. The blade chose Remi, who selected random starts, and Knox’s magic transported everyone.

Genevieve came to in a butler’s pantry, noted signs of disuse, and slipped into the dining room via a concealed panel door. She moved through the hall toward Rowin’s room, planning either to rendezvous with him or retrieve the Crimson Rot book and hide in the library’s secret space. As she reached for Rowin’s door, it opened from within and she was ushered inside by someone who looked like Rowin.

The man reassured her that Remi would not hunt like Grave and explained the random-start tactic, but subtle inconsistencies emerged: a bead of blood at his lip piercing and a slightly off demeanor. When he leaned in suggestively, Genevieve felt an absence of their usual heat, and the ring on her finger burned, confirming something was wrong. She played along coyly and lured him to reveal himself.

Pressed, the imposter admitted the ruse. He had pierced his lip to complete the disguise and then drew the Hunting Blade: it was Remington Silver. Remi struck, slicing Genevieve’s side through her corset. She countered by ripping out his lip ring, stunning him and sending the blade clattering to the floor.

Genevieve tried to seize the dagger, but a magical shock punished the attempt, indicating a rule against stealing the weapon. She kicked the blade away and sprinted for the door as Remi lunged to recover it, escaping the immediate threat.