Synopsis

The chapter opens with the king's internal monologue expressing his grief and helplessness regarding his son's illness, made worse by his past losses. The court then attempts to discuss the smallpox outbreak within the city, focusing on the fact that the Grand Prince contracted it while staying with a man they deem a traitor. The king, interpreting their statements as blaming him, explodes in anger, demanding they address the issue as a father, not a king, and discuss solutions.