Felicity explains that Davis and Nick likely used an entrance to the tunnel network near Davis’s home, but the group cannot spare the time to go there. Instead, Felicity reveals that the Wall of Ages in the Lodge basement is itself a secret entrance, protected so that it can be opened only by blood from at least three Scion Lines.

Felicity, William, and Fitz prick their thumbs and smear blood over their carved Line names. The Wall lights with the colors of Lamorak, Gawain, and Bors, then a hidden mechanism opens an ancient passage. Bree steadies herself by touching her sword, while Grandmother Charles wakes inside her and says the “old mother” Bree needs is coming to Bree, but has not arrived yet.

Tor and Sarah arrive and insist on joining the mission despite Tor’s injuries. William objects, but Tor argues that the group needs more firepower. After examining Tor, William admits that Tor’s Line metabolizes aether quickly and that Tor should be healed in less than an hour.

The opened passage reveals a dark, stale tunnel with six possible branches almost immediately beyond the entrance. Felicity takes command and explains that a map exists somewhere in the network, but no one knows where it is. Because all paths eventually lead to the cave, Felicity divides the group into teams; Bree is placed with Fitz and Evan, while Vaughn and Whitty form another team and the bonded pairs stay together.

Felicity warns that phones will not work underground and that Davis may open a Gate to force Nick’s defense. As the teams enter, William stops Bree and reminds her that this is not her war. Bree answers that she does not want war; Bree wants the people she loves to be safe. Bree then follows Fitz and Evan into the tunnel.