Alptraum is confined to a "guest suite" at the Coalition Tower for a long time. After Unity Day, he receives a visit from a shadow "elemental" sent by Rory. The "elemental" informs Alptraum a bit about what's been going on outside of the tower, including the proclamation by the Coalition of a new parliamentary government for Babel. A week later, the shadow makes another visit, bringing with it some "letters" from outside. Finally, Alptraum receives a visitor: Thath. Thath answers but does not answer many of Alptraum's questions about just what he is doing with Babel … and why.