On the night before the Millennial Championship, Royo paces restlessly in their rooms in Tamneki, unsettled by the city’s memories and by a nagging sense that the plan will fail. While Aeri reads calmly by candlelight, Royo reviews the scheme: Ty will present Sora to a northern count at tea so Bay Chin brings them to the championship; Aeri will pose as an arena servant; Royo will attend as Sora and Ty’s guardsmith; Euyn will hide beneath the arena and surface at the two-minute warning, when points double and attention is on the field, allowing Aeri to steal King Joon’s etherum crown, Sora to kiss Joon, and Mikail to crown Euyn.

Royo questions Aeri’s lack of anxiety, but Aeri insists worry will not change what is meant to happen. For the first time, Aeri opens her velvet bag in front of Royo, spilling out jewels, money, a portrait, a brush, and the stuffed dragon Royo won for her—kept among her valuables. Aeri then gives Royo the promised specially cut diamond, explaining she wants Royo paid even if something goes wrong.

Holding the diamond, Royo realizes he now has enough to buy Hwan’s freedom even if Euyn’s promised pardon fails. The payment should make Royo feel relieved, but instead it sharpens Royo’s dread that tomorrow will end Royo’s time with Aeri.

Royo attempts to apologize for being harsh and distrustful, struggling to say the words, until Aeri stops the effort and tells Royo she understands Royo’s guardedness and still considers Royo a good person. Royo admits nobody ever calls Royo that, and confesses unease about the plan; Aeri agrees the plan is terrible but says they cannot abandon it, reminding Royo that Royo’s priority must be protecting Aeri no matter what happens.

As their feelings surface, Aeri tells Royo Aeri likes Royo more than expected. Royo says Royo does not want to leave Aeri, and Aeri invites Royo to share the bed for warmth as they once did. In the dark, they hold each other, and Royo finally says Royo does not want this to be the end and wants to stay beyond tomorrow; Aeri answers that Aeri does too, while Royo quietly dreams of a future after shedding the king’s blood—and the traitor’s.