In an altered Ninth House scene, Harrow Nova stands in the narthex with a black rapier and the chain of Samael, demanding that Ortus Nigenad yield his claim and acknowledge Harrow as cavalier primary. Harrow argues that, although Harrow lacks Ortus's size and strength, Harrow has trained for speed, technique, and the right to bear the sword.

Harrow's thoughts reveal a life defined by exclusion and resentment: Harrow once stole the sacred chain from the Anastasian monument and was punished for it, and Harrow believes the true Reverend line has supplanted Harrow. Harrow does not want to serve the Daughter out of loyalty; Harrow openly hates her, but insists that if Harrow cannot be the adept, then Harrow should be the cavalier.

Ortus tries to defuse the confrontation, explaining that Ortus would gladly become secondary and stay home, but the Reverend Mother and Father would never accept Harrow unless Harrow killed him. Harrow treats this as confirmation rather than deterrence and prepares to fight, forcing Ortus to plead with Harrow not to proceed.

Marshal Crux interrupts, outraged that swords have been drawn before the altar. Crux blames Ortus as cavalier primary, orders Ortus away to the Daughter's side because arrangements are nearly complete, and privately urges Harrow to put away the weapon because pilgrims are present.

Harrow notices two pilgrims in the pews, a woman with spectacles and a shaved-headed man. The woman smiles at Harrow with strange familiarity, and Harrow realizes with confusion that Harrow somehow knows the man is the woman's husband. The woman is Abigail, who breaks the scene by saying, "This isn't how it happens."