Is there a surprise in the book?

In the end, Thomas sees his mother.... and we learn that although the conflict has been resolved (for now), the game will continue.

The boy looked up at his mother. He had no reason to hold back the tears, and he didn't. They flowed down his face freely. He jumped to his feet and hugged her, shattering her heart a million times over. She squeezed him back.

"You're going to do great things for this world," she whispered, somehow keeping herself under control. "You're going to make me so proud. I love you, sweet boy. I love you so much and don't you ever forget it."

His only response was to sob into her shoulder. And that said everything.

Finally it had to end.

"I'm very sorry," the lady in the dark suit and mask said. "But we have a tight schedule.
Truly, I'm sorry."

"Go on now," the mother said to her son. "Go on, and be brave."

He pulled back, his face wet, his eyes red. A strength seemed to come over him and he nodded, helping her believe he'd be okay in the end. He was strong, this one.

The boy turned away, never to look at her again. He walked to the door and went through it with no hesitation. No glance back, no complaints.