Dianna and Liam continue driving because Dianna wants to avoid easier travel that could expose them. Liam grows increasingly irritated by repeated stops, while Dianna notices that Liam has not eaten or slept and is suffering headaches. When Dianna insists on stopping for food and a bathroom break, Liam gives her only minutes and makes clear that he still does not want Dianna out of his sight.

Inside the convenience store, Dianna identifies the cashier as Reissa, an Otherworld being living under a mortal disguise with her children. Reissa knows Kaden has placed a bounty on Dianna and initially refuses to help because Kaden would kill Reissa and her children if he learned of it. Dianna responds by violently threatening Reissa and her sons, using Dianna's reputation to force cooperation while privately intending not to harm the family.

Reissa confirms that the Otherworld is unstable because Kaden has lost two generals and no one trusts anyone. Dianna asks for a safe way past El Donuma, where Camilla would kill Dianna if Dianna entered openly. Reissa gives Dianna a phone and says a man who can help will be at a festival in Tadheil, warning that Dianna must call and arrive when told because the contact will not wait.

When Dianna leaves, Liam is waiting and accuses Dianna of lying about needing the bathroom, but he only notices Dianna's snacks. Back in the car, Dianna urges Liam to eat and sleep, but Liam snaps at her until Dianna finally rebukes him for treating Dianna like a servant. Liam silently takes the snacks, and the journey continues until he eventually falls asleep.

While Liam sleeps, Dianna uses Reissa's phone to call Gabby. Gabby says Neverra and Logan have treated Gabby well and let Gabby help in the medical wing, and Gabby presses Dianna about the journey. Dianna admits Sophie and Nym poisoned Dianna and that Liam fed Dianna to save her, but Dianna hides the full fear surrounding Dianna's bargain with Liam. Gabby encourages Dianna, dreams of a future sister vacation, and tells Dianna to rest.

Exhausted, Dianna pulls into a remote motel. Dianna rents a room from a clerk who mistakes Liam for Dianna's boyfriend and then implies Dianna may be a sex worker. Irritated but too tired to fight further, Dianna pays with stolen cash and takes the key.