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Hrotholf, Izar, Dorinda, and Ego awaken in an ash pit, connected by blue light tethers from their chests to Izar's ring. Ego hears gunshots and artillery that others don't perceive. After consuming a phoenix shell powder, Ego experiences partial healing though her forehead still burns. Hrothulf alone sees bodies on the ground, which he identifies as his family members - Hrothgar, Wiglaf, Hildegar, Brecca den Hrunting - plus a salamander boy (the Prince). When Izar throws ash while thinking of Servant, they hear a booming voice say "BRANCH!" Orange fire erupts from Brecca's forehead, leaps to Izar's ring, and sends a flame shockwave that allows everyone to see the bodies, which are actually alive but comatose. The jovial yet powerful voice returns, belonging to Gliton. He offers them a deal: he'll revive the unconscious people if they bring him Raltach's head (a dragon waiting for them in Champion City on Terran). When questioned further, Gliton reveals he doesn't care about Slenn or the rightful rule, only "the game." Though he doesn't know where Teresias or Bode Augur are, he suggests they find his "nerdy sister" Yafel on Genussa, "deep in a chasm of unknowing, under a wise star." An orange comet lands in Izar's bracelet, burning itself in. The Heordred family and Ibi awaken, and the clew splits to connect all nine of them. Hrothulf emotionally reunites with his family members.