Rory, Mara, and Kade reach a mysterious door at the end of the Hollow Road. Mara explains it opens only when a debt from Rory’s past bargain is fully paid. The “ride,” a devilish force, waits behind it. Realizing someone must ride to satisfy the deal, Rory prepares to sacrifice himself, but Mara and Kade refuse to let him face it alone. In a final choice, Rory instead drives his blade into the door, forcing it shut and trapping the ride behind it. The debt is paid and they survive, finally free from running—for now.
