Nick gives Bree a silver coin inscribed with a circle and diamond shape: the Order’s sigil. It is on a chain she can wear to show she’s his Page. He outlines terms for their arrangement, including feigning ignorance about her powers and knowledge, as well as keeping a low profile.

When others arrive and recognize Nick, he is charming. Bree meets Fitz, Russ, and Felicity. Bree asks why Nick left the Order, and he hints at family issues but doesn’t elaborate. People stare at them as they talk; Bree is the only person of color at the Lodge.

In the salon, Nick gives Bree some backstory: Vassals are Onceborn outsiders pledged to 13 Legendborn bloodlines. The Vassals know about magic but generally don’t fight, and parents use their kids to gain favor with Legendborn. Nick says he’ll defend Bree in this competitive and racist environment.

Nick seems happy to see a Page named James Whitlock (aka Whitty)—a pig farmer friend and Sarah’s Page. Bree meets Greer Taylor (they/them pronouns) and Craig McMahon. When the latter pulls Nick aside, Greer and Bree chat. Greer mentions Arthur in relation to Nick, and Bree feigns knowledge. This foreshadows that Bree, not Nick, is the true Scion of Arthur (a Scion carries a Bloodcraft-bound spirit that will be Awakened).