In Rahway, Royo endures being measured by a tailor after Aeri Soo insists he needs new suits for their next steps. The close-fitting leaves Royo uncomfortable, and he silently resents how quickly Aeri takes control of their time and money.

While Aeri calmly sips tea and chooses fabrics, Royo reflects on the nights since their rescue: he initially struggled to sleep because he missed Aeri’s presence, then forced himself to stop indulging the feeling. In the shop, Aeri orders three suits for Royo and a dozen dresses for herself, and she buys a new dress immediately to replace her old one.

They leave without even checking into their inn first, with Royo stuck carrying Aeri’s laundry and new undergarments (including ones she bought for him). Outside, Rahway’s bright, warm streets feel unlike Umbria’s gloom, and Aeri’s cheerfulness briefly makes the day easier for Royo to tolerate.

After asking a passerby for directions, they head toward the Troubadour Inn. Royo assumes they will depart for Tamneki the next day, but Aeri reveals she expects to stay in Rahway for a few days until meeting the spymaster to plan the timing.

Royo confronts Aeri about the delays, anxious about wasted time since leaving Umbria, but Aeri coldly holds her ground and reminds him he promised her a month. Royo recognizes Aeri’s stubborn courage even as it frustrates him, and he follows her into the inn, still burdened with her belongings.