Synopsis

The chapter begins with the Emperor offering Prince Varlka a choice: live as a 'lost dog' in exile or undertake a perilous mission to discover the fabled eastern continent, requiring him to bring a gift and a friend within three days. Varlka is given a mysterious sculpture as a 'present', which he realizes is the key to understanding the Emperor’s ambitions. Through conversations with his companions, Varlka uncovers that the Emperor believes in the eastern continent, a concept deemed a myth by most, and that the Emperor wants him to lead an expedition to find it. Varlka grapples with the potential dangers and the massive resources such a journey would require.