Set in

Dorinda finds a parchment in a sword's hilt with a map of the Solidlands and a declaration about finding the Pit of Ash. Four locations are crossed off the map, and several others remain. Izar bids farewell to Elys, Ego tinkers with a rail gun, and Hrothulf exchanges goodbyes with Idunn and the captain. They board a ferry to the Dao Empire and meet Atapa, who updates them on the situation there. They plan to meet with the Empress and offer their services to find her missing son. Atapa advises caution around Vashnu, captain of the Tiger Guard. They discuss seeking information about temples and plan to meet with Vashnu with the possibility of a bribe. Atapa offers lodging, and they hope to gather information at a local bar.