Lysander details the limits of mechanized lie detection while facing the BloodHound XTC-1400. He notes he has been surveilled since arrival and that the device cross-references his behavior against earlier recordings. Confident in his alias and training, he treats lying as art, not science.

During questioning, Lysander offers selective truths: a scorcher from his supposed father, the names of fabricated parents, and a vague childhood link to Glirastes. He counts on erased Gold census records and Glirastes’ partial corroboration to reinforce his cover as Cato au Vitruvius.

Darrow interrupts, shoves the machine aside, and conducts his own assessment. Rhonna brings a chair, salutes Lysander, and relays Alexandar’s gratitude before departing. Darrow credits Alexandar’s rescue and Atlas’s capture, but challenges how a self-professed libertine achieved what trained soldiers could not.

Pressed for a resolution, Darrow refuses to release Cato into Heliopolis but agrees to place him with Glirastes under conditions: Cato may not leave the estate and must submit to inspections. Lysander’s flippant request for Pinks earns a cold rebuke, underscoring Darrow’s distrust.

Escorted to the Mound’s foyer, Lysander meets a gaunt, emotional Glirastes, who embraces him and remarks on his scarred face. With this transfer, Lysander gains protected proximity to the Master Maker and a foothold inside the Republic stronghold—access he intends to use.