Darrow collapses under the revelation that Eo was pregnant when executed, mourning not only his wife but the family he will never have. Rage at Society’s injustice surges until Harmony shares her own losses and argues that only savagery can bring light. Darrow embraces her cause, telling Harmony he will do whatever Ares wants.

Grays escort Darrow to the Jackal’s private tower, where Yellow physicians treat the Jackal’s burns. The Jackal insists the bombing wasn’t the Sons, blaming Pliny or the Sovereign’s Praetorians, and defends Victra’s loyalty, claiming she loves Darrow. He orders secrecy about their alliance, plans to court syndicate lords, and vows to purchase Darrow’s contract after the Summit. Before Darrow leaves, the Jackal pointedly thanks him for saving his life.

Over the next three days, grief numbs Darrow as Society orchestrates a public-relations campaign against the Sons: relief broadcasts, arrests, donations, and raids. Feeling removed from the Golds’ pageantry, Darrow carries a Mickey-made bomb disguised as his pegasus and withdraws from friends, including Victra and Roque, anticipating the gala attack.

A small accident shatters Theodora’s composure; she spills wine on Darrow’s uniform and breaks into tears, revealing the fear permeating the villa and prompting Darrow to seek Roque. In Roque’s room, they share easy banter about Tactus before Roque reveals his plan to bid for Darrow’s contract, risking debts and family ire. When Darrow admits feeling lost, Roque tells a story about homing pigeons and defines home as where light is found in darkness, pledging unfailing friendship and protection.

Darrow acknowledges Roque’s goodness and says they could have been brothers. Then, to spare Roque from the imminent gala massacre, Darrow injects him with a sedative. Watching Roque sink into sleep, Darrow understands the cost: when Roque wakes to the aftermath, he will know Darrow’s role. Saving his friend ensures exposure and that there is no turning back.