Sora watches the tuhko final from a seat close enough to see blood on players’ uniforms, shaken by how violent the match has become. Beside Sora, Bay Chin is absorbed in the game and admits he has wagered heavily on the Rourans, reacting angrily despite their one-nil lead.

Sora studies the royal box and spots Aeri there, standing with a tray of grapes among servants and guards. King Joon sits isolated except for attendants and Mikail, and Sora notes how deliberately alone powerful men keep themselves. When Bay Chin notices Sora looking toward the throne, Sora hides her interest with a smile.

Bay Chin reminds Sora he intends to introduce her to the king after the first half ends. Sora panics internally because the assassination plan depends on acting during the final minutes of the half, when the crowd’s attention is fixed on play; halftime would be too late. Sora realizes she cannot reach King Joon without Bay Chin’s rank and that Ty cannot approach the throne, leaving Sora scrambling for an opening.

During a stoppage after a penalty flag, Sora fakes a yawn and boredom to provoke Bay Chin’s vanity. It works: Bay Chin decides to take Sora to meet King Joon immediately while officials argue the call. Ty stands to follow, but Bay Chin pointedly reminds Ty that Ty has already met the king and physically pressures Ty back into his seat. Ty insists he welcomes the chance anyway, and although Bay Chin laughs it off, Sora catches a troubling look from him as the two-minute warning approaches.