Brishen is briefed by Thath concerning her duties as Babel's new ambassador to Rephidim. She then journeys to Rephidim, where she is received by Bridge Officer Nimiss, along with her mousey assistant, Degarde … who is impressed by Brishen's handling of her new position. At last, she retires to the Three Thieves, as the Embassy – located in what was once the dwelling of Kame Ikata, in the Old City – is presently uninhabitable.