Man what a sudden exit. I’ll be honest to say I didn’t expect it, I thought there’d be some awkward explanation of the truth so he could continue staying with Asha, since they’re close companions by now.
I suppose not. From Fiadh’s point of view the risks must be weighed different and he chose to cut his losses and make a hasty disappearance, once Asha finds out she’s been deceived. It suddenly reminds me how he was at the very beginning of the story before he met Asha, when things didn’t work for him at the Vailtower he disappeared on his own and tried to find a way to Sarkesa. As much as I like their friendship it’s definitely in-character for him to cut his losses and jump ship once things go sour.

Other notes; I enjoy the look of the upper right panel. the artstyle for Asha’s wider shoulder/collarbones consistently look good for showing she’s strong/bulky. Her expression is fun, bewilderment and not yet getting what is happening. Also I find out what the currency name is!

Wow, Fiadh’s a natural with that jacket! If he hasn’t used it to fly already he seems to have figured out at least half. Asha on the bottom must have her danger-sense kicking in, like the shift in atmosphere made her realise her ransom is suddenly making a break for it