At Rephath's temple, Envoy witnesses the "mock" execution of two pirates, as they are spared at the last minute – Rephath forgives them for their transgressions – but then she turns around and has one beheaded for daring to proclaim his innocence, when she had proclaimed him guilty. If that were not enough, Envoy is compelled to watch as a man guilty of stealing bread from Rephath's temple – and then killing one of the Yodhrephath in the process of resisting capture – is killed just before his body erupts with several horrib larvae that had been implanted in him as his punishment. Envoy is then expected to give a performance of Macbeth for Rephath's entertainment, followed by Wynona, who tells of her adventures in Aelfhem. Envoy learns that Wynona is being "forgiven her transgression" this day, in exchange for telling her tale; Envoy had not been aware that Wynona had gotten herself into trouble over this.

At last, Envoy leaves, going back to the Guild Hall of Babel. There, she does not receive a very warm welcome. Rather, she is subjected to several tests to make certain she is not (and was not) controlled by a spirit or some sort of magic to make her give that controversial speech blasting the Mages' Guild. Cyprian speaks with Envoy privately, and strongly criticizes her for her actions. At last, Envoy goes to see the House Master, and learns that her status as a mage is being rescinded.

It's not a very good day for Envoy.