Darrow wakes from a memory of his lost love to Mustang at his door. Ragnar stands guard, but Darrow orders him off, slipping into the harsh “dominus” role he dislikes. Mustang, casual in a kimono, wanders his suite, teasing about music and robots, and they banter about history, the Ash Lord’s armor, and what outsiders might think of humanity.

She leads Darrow to a training room and points out House Grimmus lineage, then probes his distance from Gold culture. Their talk shifts to her academic work and his preferences, and she goads him with a practice razor, using playful aggression to force candor. Mustang cites her argument against specialization, accusing Darrow of making himself only a warrior despite championing choice for others.

Pressed, Darrow’s evasions and invented past cannot bear scrutiny. Mustang senses the gap and asks about the girl he lost. He remains silent, and the music dies with the moment. Mustang, frustrated by his pattern of pulling her close then pushing her away, demands fairness and vulnerability.

At the threshold, Mustang urges Darrow to ask her to stay. Fearing the consequences of his hidden truth, he cannot. She leaves, and Darrow is left alone, their relationship wounded by his refusal to bridge the emotional divide.