Hadrian pauses his account of Valka Onderra, explaining that after meeting Valka he does not see Valka again for weeks. Instead, Hadrian passes time under Count Mataro's supervision, attending Anaïs's regatta, another coliseum fight, and two live operas by the Eudoran troupe.

Hadrian's days are otherwise spent accompanying the count's children to their activities and lessons. These supervised outings are the only times Hadrian is permitted to leave the castle, making Hadrian feel confined despite his improved circumstances.

Alone in Hadrian's room, Hadrian grows bitter and self-reproachful. Hadrian reflects that the romantic public story of Marlowe talking his way into Count Mataro's service and into Anaïs's life is false; in truth, Hadrian came into the count's household because Hadrian's own failed escape plan exposed and trapped Hadrian.

Hadrian recognizes that Hadrian had hoped to buy a starship with deceit and money, but instead alienated Hadrian's closest friend and gained no ship. Hadrian had forgotten the danger of Hadrian's bloodline and identity, becoming too comfortable as Had of Teukros and too confident that Hadrian could act freely.

Hadrian considers contacting Pallino, Elara, Ghen, Siran, or even Switch, but palace security would monitor any communication. Because any mention of buying a ship could appear to be another escape attempt, Hadrian remains silent and accepts that comfort, food, and safety have cost Hadrian privacy and freedom. Hadrian concludes that, unlike on Delos, this crystal cage is one Hadrian made through Hadrian's own folly.