With two days left before DICOMY’s inspector arrives, Arthur meets privately with Lucy, who accuses Arthur of lying by telling David he can be a “monster” while insisting Lucy doesn’t have to be one. Arthur apologizes for the double standard and reframes the issue as choice and responsibility: David’s “monster” desire is about harmless fear and joy, while Lucy’s power could override others’ free will. Lucy admits he might be able to change everyone’s minds instantly, and Arthur challenges whether an “easier” outcome is right if it erases people’s ability to learn and choose.

That night, Arthur and Linus talk in bed about parenting children with dangerous abilities and how to guide David without denying who he is. Tension flares when Linus calls David’s urges “baser instincts,” and Arthur points out Linus can’t fully understand what it’s like to be labeled monstrous. They reconcile by agreeing their job is to listen, teach, and eventually step back—while acknowledging Arthur is tempted by the idea of Lucy forcing acceptance, even though DICOMY already tries to impose its will. They agree that if DICOMY tries to take the children, they will fight.

On Tuesday, the household “prepares for war” by trying to prevent it: Arthur and Linus order the children to gather anything that could be construed as a weapon and to help keep David hidden. Phee and David bring down a homemade wyvern translation book to help David communicate with Theodore, including curse words; Arthur praises Phee’s leadership. Arthur and Linus instruct everyone to show the inspector courtesy and avoid threats, though Lucy and Talia eagerly volunteer violence if David is discovered.

The children present their questionable items. Theodore offers small treasures, especially his cherished brass button, fearing an inspector might confiscate it; Linus promises to keep it safe. Chauncey produces sharp shells and awkwardly admits he secretly eats pine cones. Phee reveals a jeweled dagger won from J-Bone in Go Fish; Sal reveals a sword won from J-Bone in Old Maid. Talia produces multiple bottles of poison. Lucy tops them all with an ax, improvised flamethrower, throwing star, garrote, and dynamite—prompting Arthur to forbid explosions “at least not until the inspector has left.” When Sal challenges why they must “bend over backwards” to prove themselves to DICOMY, Arthur admits he has no better answer than protecting them as best he can.

They spend the day childproofing and disguising the cellar exits with vines so David can escape if needed. Zoe calls from Helen’s shop, saying she will return before the inspector arrives and hinting she has “tricks” as a last resort. That night, Linus gathers everyone in pajamas and leads them to a gazebo made into a cozy nest with lights and blankets; a pillow fight breaks the tension. Linus has prepared ice packs for David so he can sleep comfortably, and Phee tells a comedic “true” horror story about Linus’s mustache becoming sentient, culminating in a single harmless explosion of fireworks. After the others fall asleep, Sal tells Arthur they will survive whatever comes because they have what the government doesn’t: each other.