Rigelus, the Bright Hand of the Asteri, calls Bryce's home phone. He thanks her for saving the city and announces that a favor has already been granted: Hunt's slave tattoo now bears a 'C' over it—he has been freed. However, Rigelus makes the terms of this favor unmistakable: Bryce and Hunt must live quietly, never use the Horn tattooed on Bryce's back, and use her starlight only for personal enjoyment. In exchange, the Asteri will cover up the deaths of Micah and Sandriel, blaming Micah for going rogue and Sandriel for poor slave management. Rigelus also claims the brimstone missiles were a last resort sent on Sandriel's misinformation, absolving the Asteri of blame for nearly destroying Lunathion. The implied threat is clear: if Bryce or Hunt step out of line, the Asteri will destroy them and those they love, starting with Bryce's mother, Ember.

After the call, Hunt explains that Isaiah needs him at the Comitium to help manage angels challenging Isaiah's authority. Bryce agrees to accompany him, and Hunt flies her down from the rooftop where they encounter Ruhn, Fury, and Flynn on the street. Fury embraces Bryce fiercely and confirms Juniper is safe before sprinting off. Flynn stands back, stunned, as Bryce turns to Ruhn, whose torn clothes reveal how hard he fought during the battle.

Ruhn, overcome with emotion, babbles about the events—Tharion helping evacuees, Amelie checking on the pups at the Den, and how he heard Bryce and then Danika through the Moonwood Gate but couldn't reach her through the demon horde. Tears fill his eyes, and Bryce throws her arms around him. They share a deeply emotional reunion, with Ruhn revealing he thought she had died multiple times. Bryce confirms she meant the forgiveness she expressed through Hunt, and Ruhn tells her he doesn't care about the Starborn power or being called Prince—he only wants to be her brother. Bryce accepts, though she warns she will never forgive the Autumn King.

Ruhn also warns Bryce that the Autumn King will want to meet with her and that she should be on her guard. They briefly discuss Ruhn's newly revealed telepathic ability, which he demonstrates by speaking directly into Bryce's mind, asking her to keep it secret from their father. Ruhn departs to take a call from Declan, and Bryce looks up to the rooftop where Hunt waits—no longer the Shadow of Death, but something new.