30.

Gwen, aching and weak after signing out of the hospital, nearly falls in the lobby but is steadied by Robin. Outside, she finds Donna at the wheel of Colin’s ’49 Cadillac, with Allie and Tana waiting. They reveal an ambush of support: they will not let Gwen confront King Sorrow alone.

As they drive, Gwen outlines why Brooks Library is the best battleground: stone walls, survivability, and an empty campus during spring break. Allie confirms logistics—limited staff, a reserved conference room, and a connected server room where the others can hide. The plan is to keep a low profile, slip out at closing, and re-enter later.

Gwen resists, fearing their deaths and the loss of any post-Easter resistance. Robin insists Gwen cannot physically manage the séance or fight alone, and the group argues they win either by defeating Sorrow or by dying together and denying him future returns. Tana notes the cost of a pyrrhic victory.

Donna forces the issue, holding the robe and mirror and threatening, if necessary, to kill Gwen quickly to banish Sorrow. Robin reports prior reconnaissance: shades can be drawn, lights off, and moonlight will suffice; security only passes through occasionally. The plan solidifies despite Gwen’s objections.

Gwen, overwhelmed and hurting, finally yields. The chapter closes with grim humor and Donna’s blunt reassurance, cementing the group’s united, high-risk commitment to the Brooks Library trap.