Chapter Fifty-Six

Summary

• The chapter opens with Hunt video chatting with Bryce's parents, Ember Quinlan and Randall Silago, for the first time, while they are seated on their couch at home.
• Despite a guarded warmth and casual banter, including Bryce's parents noticing Hunt's tattoos and referring to his past as a notorious sharpshooter, tension begins to simmer beneath the surface.
• Hunt makes an impression on Bryce’s parents by asking about their professions and engaging them in conversation. It is revealed through their discussion that Hunt had a tragic past related to his mother.
• As the conversation progresses, Hunt exposes the fact that Bryce's leg still hurts due to a previous demonic attack which might have left venom in her wound. He argues that the issue could become a serious problem if not addressed before the next “Drop” (an event yet the be specified).
• Bryce staunchly refuses to seek medical attention and shuts down the conversation abruptly after Hunt suggests that she visit a medical practitioner known as a medwitch.
• Ember quickly calls back, questioning the situation that led to Hunt living with Bryce and expressing her concern about Bryce being involved in dangerous situations. Ember warns Bryce about the risks associated with involving herself with the powerful Vanir, and expresses her parental worry about Bryce's wellbeing.
• Ember insists on making an appointment for Bryce with a medwitch despite Bryce's denial of needing medical help. Their conversation ends with Ember sending a stinging reminder to Bryce about her departed friend Danika and suggesting that Bryce is unnecessarily suffering and has stopped engaging in activities she once loved as a result.