After returning from her mysterious meeting with Atlas Blakely, Libby Rhodes breaks the news to her boyfriend Ezra over dinner that she will be accepting the Alexandrian Society's offer. She is unable to explain the specifics of the opportunity, describing it only as a "fellowship" and asking Ezra to trust her. Ezra, unaware of the Society's true nature, responds by mentioning that Nico de Varona turned down an NYUMA fellowship, suggesting Libby could take that position instead—a suggestion she finds insulting.

The conversation grows tense when Libby reveals that Nico has also been invited to the same opportunity. Ezra questions why they would need both of them, which further frustrates Libby. She explains her competitive drive: she refuses to let Nico outshine her again, especially after he received the NYUMA fellowship she had wanted. She frames the Society's initiation as a direct competition, noting that only one of them with the same specialty is likely to be selected for the final group, and she is determined to be the one chosen.

Ezra expresses concern about the arrangement and about Libby leaving, valuing their closeness and disliking the idea of Nico being present in his absence. Libby promises to call every night and come home every weekend. She gives Ezra an ultimatum: he can either say he loves and supports her, or say something else—but there are only two possible answers. Ezra relents, telling her he loves and supports her, but urges her to be careful. Libby dismisses his protectiveness as his usual "white knight" tendencies, insisting she can take care of herself.

The chapter ends with an affectionate moment between the couple. Ezra pulls Libby into an embrace, telling her he'll miss her. Libby clings to him, recognizing that while she doesn't need saving, it feels good to be anchored to something familiar before stepping into the unknown of the Alexandrian Society.