28.6

In this poignant chapter, Taylor grapples with the weight of the impending final battle against Scion. She contemplates a solitary retreat, yearning for a respite from the relentless pressure and danger. The thought of simply walking away, seeking solace in nature, is a tempting pull, a chance to recharge and find clarity. Yet, she hesitates, bound by a sense of responsibility and the fear that she might not return.

Rachel’s silent support becomes a tether, grounding Taylor in the midst of her turmoil. Imp, with her characteristic bluntness, draws a parallel to movies where a stray dog must choose between its old, abusive owner and a kind child. The analogy, though clumsy, highlights the choice they face—to fight or to surrender.

The Simurgh, having chosen Tattletale to follow, becomes a focal point of their strategy. Tattletale, bearing the weight of the Endbringer’s attention, insists that Taylor and the others proceed with their mission. They separate, with Imp and Rachel departing through portals, leaving Taylor and Tattletale behind.

Taylor presses Tattletale for information, sensing her pessimism. Tattletale reveals a chilling truth: Scion possesses a power akin to Contessa’s, a “path to victory” that allows him to anticipate and counter their every move. This revelation casts a shadow over their already slim chances, but Taylor clings to the hope that even seemingly unbeatable powers have weaknesses.

Tattletale, usually a pillar of strength, breaks down, revealing her fear and frustration. Taylor, in a rare display of vulnerability, offers comfort, reminding her that there are always options. They share a moment of genuine connection, a brief respite from the looming darkness.

Taylor embarks on a series of visits, seeking closure and connection with those who have shaped her journey. She finds Charlotte and the kids, who have established a semblance of normalcy in a world on the brink. They have refused Cauldron’s offer of powers, choosing to protect their makeshift family rather than risk the potential consequences of becoming capes.

A visit to Glenn Chambers and Quinn Calle, her former mentors in image and law, respectively, offers further reflection. They discuss her transformation, acknowledging her anger and her capacity for both heroism and violence. Glenn encourages her to embrace all aspects of herself, suggesting that her anger might be a necessary tool in the fight ahead.

A brief stop at a makeshift movie night organized for capes provides a glimpse of camaraderie and distraction. Taylor delivers a heartfelt letter to Miss Militia, expressing her gratitude and reflecting on her past aspirations.

Finally, she returns to Tattletale, who is asleep. The Simurgh’s eerie lullaby fills the room, a constant reminder of the power they now wield. Taylor, unable to sleep, watches over her friend, contemplating the sacrifices they have made and the uncertain future that awaits them. The chapter ends with a sense of foreboding, as the final battle draws near, and the weight of their choices settles heavily upon them. The lullaby stops when Taylor asks it to, but she is unable to sleep, with it she hears an apology in her head, in her voice, but not her words.