Sora arrives with Tiyung at the outskirts of Rahway and is struck by the city’s sudden rise from the horizon into a sandstone metropolis of towers, walls, and a high bridge over a vast port. The dry air, muted colors, and unfamiliar crops emphasize how far she is from Gain, and she stays wary as Tiyung watches her reaction.

During the carriage ride into the city, Tiyung admits he likes seeing wonder on Sora’s face. Sora reflects on his repeated offers of help over their days of travel and decides he seems sincere, even if she still does not fully trust him because of his father’s influence. Sora also turns over Daysum’s whispered message—“Sora, I think it’s time”—and worries that she still does not know what Daysum meant or where the Count is keeping Daysum.

Tiyung tells Sora they will meet the Count of Rahway that night because the western count has instructions about whom they must meet and where. Sora is unsettled by the implication that multiple counts are collaborating on treason and that they think she is “the solution” despite her not understanding her own role.

They stop at a grand inn called the Troubadour instead of staying at the count’s estate, and Tiyung bluntly explains the reason: the Count of Rahway can deny involvement if Tiyung’s father’s plan fails. The inn’s proprietor, Sanu, ushers them into an enormous suite and makes clear that the Count of Rahway has ordered every comfort for Tiyung’s visit.

Servants are instructed to draw baths, and Tiyung assigns Sora the room next to his, ordering her trunk not to be opened without her permission. Sora notes the cold, commanding tone that reminds her of Tiyung’s father. As Tiyung prepares correspondence and eagerly eyes a sealed letter that does not appear to bear Seok’s mark, Sora focuses on readying herself for the dinner—hoping for answers, but expecting danger.