Sir Bassai is attempting to work on his archeological book, and not making much progress due to Tekki's absence. His former slave's departure was unexpected, and surprisingly upsetting. Mage Sephira, understanding this, takes the Minister of Savanite Affairs to a private garden in the Imperial Palace. The Pavilion of Twining Dream Serpents, her quiet place of refuge that was built in the Golden Age of the Nagai Empire. The surroundings, and Mage Sephira's presence, finally help Bassai to relax and he tells her his concerns. He can't understand why Tekki has left, and this has caused him to question his whole course of action. Sephira consoles him with the comment that life is full of surprises, and that Bassai does not strike her as the sort of person to inspire hatred in slaves. He explains his experience with them as part of his professional work, and confides that he was starting to think of Tekki as a protege', and friend – who has now left him alone. Sephira offers to help Bassai get his Ministry under control, and, if he wishes, to be a friend. Bassai is stunned by the offer, and with less eloquence than usual, says he would love to have her as a friend. The two snakes continue the tea ceremony, and think of the future in the garden of the past.