Darrow watches Tinos from the hangar, suffocating under the refugees’ hope and fearing Sevro’s public revelation burned all retreat. He confesses to Ragnar that he no longer feels Eo’s presence and fears he can’t meet his people’s expectations. Ragnar challenges his isolation and urges him to face those he fears disappointing.

Ragnar takes Darrow to the crowded hospital, the aftermath of Attica heavy in the air. Darrow meets Vanno, a young Red who lost his legs, and their crude banter breaks the room’s gloom, drawing laughter and attention. As Darrow moves bed to bed, learning names and thanking the wounded, he feels his identity as the Reaper—defined by and for his people—return.

Reinforced by this connection, Darrow returns to the command room with Ragnar’s support and apologizes to Sevro, Dancer, and Theodora for storming out. He acknowledges his weakness but commits to help, asking for three things.

First, Darrow requests an emissary to Mustang, hoping his survival might sway her. Theodora proposes Evey, already positioned in a port city; after a brief exchange, Dancer agrees. Second, Darrow asks to bring Mickey to Tinos to make him a weapon again; Sevro eagerly supports it, citing Virany’s consultations, while Dancer cautions about the risks and logistics.

With momentum shifting, Darrow grimly notes a third request Dancer will dislike, leaving the specific demand unspoken as the chapter closes.