Darrow’s pack trails the tongueless Obsidian from Omega Block through Deepgrave, quietly neutralizing guards. They invade Warden Videli cu Yancra’s quarters, intimidate him under a Venusian cover story, and force an admission that prisoner 1126 purchased relief from solitary. Darrow offers secrecy in exchange for access, leveraging the warden’s graft.

The warden leads them to a refurbished cellblock turned decadent sanctuary. There, Apollonius au Valii-Rath plays violin amid luxury, narcotized Pinks, and stores of contraband. Darrow lies that Tharsus awaits him and presses for immediate extraction, claiming the warden’s death would trigger lockdown. Apollonius tests their story and Darrow’s resolve, then dresses to leave.

As they exit, Apollonius abruptly seizes the warden and crushes his eyes, savoring the act. Sevro’s darts hit, but Apollonius powers through, bull-rushing the team. Darrow tackles him; Apollonius nearly chokes him out until the Obsidian smashes a hookah into Apollonius’s head. Darrow’s mask is torn off during the struggle, exposing his face before the venom finally subdues Apollonius.

With the blinded warden unconscious, Darrow bets corruption will keep him quiet. Sevro seethes but accepts a split: he and Alexandar double back to help Pebble and Clown move prisoners, while Darrow and Thraxa haul Apollonius to the sub. Recognizing Darrow, the tongueless Obsidian is offered a ride out.