At a locked door someone yells to Hans, insisting "I can prove it's me," after accusations that "the Player" and Echo copied or stole memories. Hans refuses to be fooled, calling the approach a trick; an onlooker admits they almost fell for it. A separate voice then says, "You did keep yourself for me. I'll forgive you," hinting at a fragile reconciliation that changes the stakes. Meanwhile Cora, expected back, is harried by servants who call her "brat" and claim "no one loves you," prompting her to snap, "Say that again." Identity remains unverified and Cora faces an imminent confrontation.