This episode is a low point for Izumi. He's been dragged into a world he hates, and there's no easy way out. Ryouma's absence is noticeable and honestly kind of frustrating he should have been there to protect Izumi. But it also makes sense for his character. He's a busy celebrity who can't always drop everything. Shougo saving the day is a nice moment, but it also highlights how much Izumi is being controlled by other people.