Shasta manages to escape Tashbaan and heads towards the Tombs, the agreed meeting place with Bree, Aravis, and Hwin. When he arrives, he realizes he is alone as his companions have not yet arrived. As night falls, Shasta feels increasingly fearful, recalling tales of ghouls haunting the Tombs. His anxiety is somewhat alleviated when a cat appears and keeps him company, providing a sense of comfort amidst the eerie surroundings.
During the night, Shasta is awakened by terrifying noises, but the cat remains by his side, which helps him stay calm. In the early morning, the cat is gone, and Shasta continues to wait for his friends. He decides to venture into Tashbaan to find food, all the while contemplating his next steps. Eventually, he spots Bree and Hwin being led by a strange man, which leaves him torn between fear and hope about whether this could be a trap or the reunion he’s been waiting for.
Roi discusses Shasta's fears, how he bases his decisions on life experience rather than books, and speculates about the mysterious man and what will happen next.