Darrow, Sevro, Mustang, and Victra monitor Antonia and Thistle in overheated, slightly heavy brig cells to fray their nerves. Antonia needles Thistle about bargaining for survival, prompting Thistle to declare she will tell Darrow everything. Mustang and Victra realize the danger as Thistle looks to the camera, and they sprint for the cells.

They arrive as Antonia smashes Thistle’s head against the divider bars, killing her to monopolize information. Victra breaks into the cell and savagely beats Antonia until Sevro restrains her; Mustang calls for a medic. Darrow, numb, confirms Thistle is dead. Victra, shaken and sorrowful, leaves, confessing she once braided her sister’s hair.

Later, the Howlers search Thistle’s quarters and find her hidden wolf pelt, confirming her past loyalty. Pebble gently packs the cloak as Pebble, Clown, and Screwface reminisce about the Institute and mourn without recrimination. Darrow watches their quiet grief, reminded of their bond.

Sevro then admits Victra ended their relationship after he confessed love, believing she would poison what they have; Darrow and Mustang suggest she is scared. Sevro grimly tallies the looming threat: the Jackal’s unknown plan, Octavia still in play, and the Scepter Armada’s superiority. Mustang concludes they must change the paradigm to avoid inevitable defeat.