Cassie waits in a forgotten New York City ballroom that still bears the damage of the last auction: damp air, shattered mirrors, broken glass, bloodstains, and a ruined chandelier. Sitting near the mirror leading to the Bookseller’s panic room escape route, Cassie reminisces about feeling safe during her time with Mr. Webber and wonders whether peace can only be appreciated in hindsight.

Her thoughts turn to Izzy and the guilt Cassie feels for endangering her. Earlier, in the hotel bar, Cassie tried to push Izzy away for safety, but Izzy refused to leave and insisted friendship does not depend on Cassie making perfect choices.

Cassie then asked Izzy to help by taking the Book of Safety and keeping it out of their enemy’s hands, explaining that if the woman ever gained it, “nothing can stop her.” Izzy suggested Cassie hand over more books too, but Cassie said they still needed them; ultimately Izzy agreed to keep the Book of Safety on her, promising they would survive together.

Back in the ballroom, Cassie hears a door and alerts the others. Drummond, Izzy, Lund, and Azaki are present but hidden by Azaki’s illusion, leaving Cassie to face what is coming alone.

Mist tendrils creep in and form a wall at the entrance before parting, and the gray-mist woman steps onto the dance floor carrying a purse and the Book of Mists. Cassie reveals the auction was staged to lure her there, then needles and condemns the woman’s silence and cruelty, escalating into open provocation as Cassie dares her to attack.