The chapter opens with an excerpt from Crossed Purposes by Kest Brindleby, in which the aging mercenary Pembroke parts ways with his younger partner Marret after their final job together, telling her he is headed down the hill while she is headed up it.

Viv finishes the book on a dune outside Murk, struck by how personal it feels and recognizing Fern's lesson about books as mirrors. Rackam's Ravens arrive, bringing both dread and relief. At The Perch, Viv hands over Varine's grimoire, its pages now split and lifeless. Rackam accepts that Varine is dead, dissatisfied with the meager trophy but trusting he can still secure payment. Viv conceals Satchel's existence from the mercenaries and introduces Gallina as the gnome who saved her in a street fight, signaling Gallina's new place among the Ravens.

Back at her room, Viv packs her belongings. Maylee arrives unannounced, refusing to say goodbye in public. Kneeling face to face, Maylee acknowledges that this is the price of their time together and that they will likely never meet again, but insists she does not regret it. She kisses Viv briefly and leaves without Viv finding the words to reply.

Viv visits Thistleburr a final time to return Fern's copy of Crossed Purposes, which Fern insists she keep. Viv reflects that the novel's ending may not be the true ending—there is a "story past the story" beyond what the author wrote. Fern thanks Viv for her friendship. Satchel expresses his gratitude for his liberty and decides to stay on at the bookshop. Potroast, finally affectionate, accepts a piece of bacon and licks Viv's finger. Overcome, Viv leaves, with Fern calling after her, "See you in the story past the story."