Brishen leaves Rephidim aboard the Silver Scimitar, working as an entertainer. A xocholatl statue of a beautiful lady Khatta is on display … and is desecrated by some hungry cubs who steal pieces from it – much to the dismay of Gefiilt, Master Xocholatier to the Emir!

The statue is ruined, and cannot be replaced, as the mold has been destroyed so as to make the creation a unique gift to the Emir. Brishen volunteers to model for a new statue.

At the palace of the Emir, Brishen sings for the Emir, and Gefiilt presents his creation. The Emir is greatly pleased, but the Wasir is suspicious of Brishen's intent. Brishen is offered a chance to stay in Abu Dhabi, and perhaps even have a title and a place of great honor, but she instead opts to move on.

In private, Brishen confesses to Degarde her role in the release of the eight Savanite slaves, and tells of her intent to go to the City of Hands … and then to Babel, to find her lost love, Reico. Degarde volunteers to go to Babel in search of Reico himself, since he fears for Brishen's safety.