Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Ryan visits Butcher and Mallory, who reveals Homelander's crimes and insists that Ryan must train to kill him. Feeling trapped, Ryan pushes Mallory aside while leaving and kills her. Butcher then accepts Kessler's argument for destroying Supes. At Vought, Homelander exposes Neuman's powers on television and orders a purge of employees who could compromise the Seven. Ashley takes Compound V after learning that her position will not protect her.
The Boys guard Singer in a bunker while the shapeshifter impersonates Annie. Hughie recognizes the deception, and the real Annie escapes captivity and arrives to kill her replacement. With Homelander threatening Zoe, Neuman asks Hughie for protection and offers to help against him. Hughie persuades the team to accept, but Butcher interrupts their meeting and kills Neuman with his new tendrils. He takes the virus, ending the proposed alliance before it can begin.
Sage returns to Homelander with a political victory despite his failed assassination scheme. Singer is arrested after footage implicates him in Neuman's death, and Calhoun assumes the presidency. He declares martial law and places deputized Supes under Homelander's command. The Boys separate but are captured during their attempted escape, while Annie recovers her flight and gets away. Butcher remains free with the virus, and Homelander is shown the chamber where Soldier Boy is being held.