Niclays Roos endures a grueling multi-day journey by palanquin from Cape Hisan to Ginura, the ancient capital of Seiiki. Along the way, he reflects on his exile—how Sabran ordered his expulsion from Virtudom after he misused Berethnet money, how he once dreamed of discovery but spent years languishing in Orisima. The chair-carriers mock and mistreat him, and when they finally deposit him at Ginura's west gate, they steal his belongings, including the Governor's letter authorizing his presence.

Wandering through the bustling streets of Ginura, Niclays marvels at the fashionable courtiers, the season trees, and the canals, but grows uneasy knowing he has no documentation. Fortunately, he encounters Eizaru Moyaka, a Seiikinese surgeon he once taught anatomy in Orisima. Eizaru warmly welcomes him and takes him to his modest home near the silk market, where Niclays reunites with Eizaru's daughter, Purumé, who also studied with him.

After bathing and resting, Niclays learns that Eizaru has secured permission from the Governor of Ginura for Niclays to stay at their house during his time in the city. Over a generous meal, the three discuss their work. Purumé has developed a groundbreaking herbal concoction called "blossom sleep" that induces deep unconsciousness, potentially allowing surgery on living patients without pain. However, she fears the authorities will suppress her research because the concoction could theoretically be used like "firecloud"—a restricted substance made from fire-breather bile that pirates use to incapacitate dragons.

Niclays suggests publishing her findings in Mentendon, but concedes that Virtudom's hostility toward Eastern knowledge makes this unlikely. Their conversation is interrupted by a messenger from the Governor of Ginura, who announces that the Warlord of Seiiki wishes to grant Niclays an audience at Ginura Castle. Eizaru reassures him it is likely a routine meeting, and Purumé excitedly offers to show Niclays around the city while he waits—a prospect that fills the long-exiled scholar with genuine joy.