Chiri-Chiri, larger and more aware than ordinary cremlings, tries to hide in her pot’s grass but tumbles out, annoyed. She listens to Rysn speak with an old soft one who feels like a parent, struggling to parse their “mouth noises.” Seeking comfort, Chiri-Chiri curls into her box, content.

The old soft one admits confusion as Rysn explains that Sleepless walk among humans and are not human. She frames her dealings as akin to difficult trade others avoid, though her mentor feels this is different. A deep vibration—like a rhythm—warns Chiri-Chiri, recalling hollow skulls from the homeland and urging her to be better. She climbs onto Rysn’s chair to receive soothing scratches.

The mentor worries that telling him endangers Rysn, but she needs his guidance. He laments past failures regarding her brashness; Rysn accepts responsibility. Sharing an unspoken understanding, he agrees to help and keep her secret, even from the queen, departing after uttering “Dawnshards” with awe.

Left alone, Rysn remains distracted as the warning rhythms press on Chiri-Chiri. Rysn’s chair lifts a few inches as she seeks food, and Chiri-Chiri decides difficult things must be done first. She mimics words—“Eat. Food.” and Rysn’s name—startling Rysn into dropping her tea. Chiri-Chiri concludes clearer speech might secure needed attention and scratches.