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Nomad inspects the downed scout’s body, silently returning a child’s drawing, while Rebeke focuses on salvaging the wreck. Discussion of “iron fields” and fabrication reveals the Chorus creates needed objects. A blinking radio indicator implies the scout transmitted before dying, meaning the enemy knows he was downed.

Nomad contacts Contemplation, who reports their search for the Refuge entrance is failing despite correct corridor placement by celestial navigation. She explains they halted creating new sunhearts, leaving their ships critically low on power, and admits leadership guilt over planned sacrifices that were postponed.

At Contemplation’s request, Nomad and Rebeke remain to observe any response. They hide near the crater’s rim as predawn light grows deadly. While conserving power and eating, they discuss origins: Rebeke’s people fled the Evil and later schismed under the Lodestar, choosing this harsh world to avoid internal strife.

Nomad reveals he has seen the Evil’s manifestations, unsettling Rebeke. She contrasts their historically nonlethal society with the Cinder King’s introduction of trained killers. Nomad reflects on human nature, scarcity, and the rise of tyranny across the parallel corridors, resolving to keep moving.

Keeping watch pays off: a single, larger, ornamented vessel approaches the crash site. Rebeke recognizes it as the Cinder King’s personal ship, confirming the alert was received and raising the stakes for Beacon’s operation and the hunt for the buried door.