Gold officers gather on the bridge of the Dejah Thoris for a blood-benediction. A white-haired girl cuts the hands of Romulus and other nobles as Mustang names the enemies to be hunted, and two hundred Praetors and Legates smear blood and rise. The Telemanuses and House Arcos stand with Mustang and Romulus, emblematic of the uneasy coalition preparing to fight Roque.

Darrow watches with Sefi, reflecting on Gold grandeur and the many foes who will hunt him—Core Golds, Grays, and Obsidians. Resolving, “Today I take,” Darrow arms himself in heavy corridor armor while Sefi dons Ragnar’s suit, projecting intimidation to offset lingering Martian resentment. News arrives that Roque’s fleet is en route from Europa, and Darrow makes brief farewells to Romulus.

In the hangar, Kavax embraces Darrow as “one of us,” a kindness underscored by Sophocles fishing a jellybean from Darrow’s armor. Kavax invites future fishing on Mars, promising camaraderie after victory, and departs with Thraxa, who playfully aided the fox. The levity contrasts with the grim stakes and reinforces bonds across houses.

Mustang urges caution, admitting she doesn’t want to be left alone again. Darrow promises restraint and, before they part, kisses her passionately amid the engines’ roar, vowing to see her soon. With alliances affirmed and personal stakes laid bare, Darrow and Sefi head to their shuttle as the battle with Roque looms.