Rowin and Genevieve arrive at Knox’s castle, Knoxium, in the inner ring of the circle, after two ferry crossings; Rowin warns Genevieve of dangers like demonic Sirens and the Avarice River, which induces greed if drunk. At the drawbridge, Rowin bleeds on a lever so the bridge recognizes him and lowers, and inside Knox greets them, trying to have a servant bring wine until Rowin forbids Genevieve from consuming anything. Knox directs them to Rowin’s family wing and mentions he wants to show Genevieve his trove before they depart, then vanishes.

Rowin and Genevieve find Wells and Remi in a sitting room. Remi reacts with hostility to Genevieve’s presence, while Rowin states Genevieve found another immunity token and that she is his wife. Wells notes their mother is awake and their father is around the estate, adding that he has just returned from Nocturnia and has news for later. Remi leaves for bed; Rowin restrains his temper and takes Genevieve to visit their mother.

They walk through opulent, black-and-violet halls to Vira’s room. Rowin hesitates at the door, admitting he has not visited in a long time and fears how much worse her condition has become. Inside, the air smells sterile and the room feels deathly cold. Vira, frail in a scarlet nightgown, at first mistakes Rowin for Remi before recognizing him; Rowin introduces Genevieve as his friend, then declares Genevieve is “Genevieve Silver,” effectively announcing their marriage.

Vira is delighted to meet Genevieve and calls her charming. Light teasing passes between Rowin and Genevieve, but Vira is seized by a violent coughing fit that spatters ink-like blood. She explains her symptoms worsen when the Fix is nearly out of her system and says she is at her best after the Hunt, when she can even stand. Rowin, clearly pained, keeps the visit brief. Vira asks him to return soon in their first language; Rowin says he has missed her but makes no promises, and Vira welcomes Genevieve to the family.

Outside the room, Genevieve asks Rowin about the secret purchase he made earlier, assuming it was for Vira. Rowin reveals it was a birthday gift for Genevieve: a thin gold cuff set with white and black diamonds, inscribed “The light is wherever you are.” He clasps it on her wrist, they embrace, and he thanks her for visiting his mother with him. He kisses her, and they start down the hall together.

Before they can continue their conversation, an agonized scream suddenly echoes through Knoxium, interrupting the calm and signaling a new threat or crisis within the castle.