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Nomad sits before Beacon’s leaders, behaving brusquely while they assess him. Reports surface that Thomos saw Nomad touch sunlight and live, prompting talk of a “Sunlit Man.” Nomad blurts Alethi, further estranging the room, as Contemplation requests to see an object Zeal’s team stole during the rescue.

Zeal unveils a metal disc bearing a symbol Nomad recognizes as Scadrian. Contemplation, Confidence, and Compassion debate its authenticity and purpose. Rebeke frames the theft as her late sister’s plan to find a hidden “Refuge,” while Confidence insists on evidence and warns the Cinder King will pursue them for the token.

Contemplation argues that faith drives discovery and that Elegy, their Lodestar, believed the Refuge was their only hope. Compassion urges testing the key and credits Zeal’s team, while acknowledging the Cinder King’s strengthened resolve after today’s attack. Confidence cautions against staking survival on legend without proof.

Privately, Nomad concludes the disc is a modern Scadrian authorization locator, not a gateway to sanctuary, meaning the “Refuge” is likely a misconception. As the winds intensify, he models the planet’s five-phase cycle—reflected-light growth, clouded rains, a violent dusk maelstrom, a sun-blasted day, and lethal dawn—clarifying the dangers facing Beacon.

Recognizing his needless rudeness, Nomad removes his boots from the council table, feels shame for his behavior, and departs. He passes through the corridor and lightlock, stepping alone into the raging storm.