Kensington, Sasta, Aaron, Lochinvar and Mira meet with K'ale at the Docks. The Kavi takes them into some underground passages, and asks them what they know about the Nobakhim. Typical answers are given, then the Kavi reveals himself to be one of the mutants. The group agrees to hear him, and his deal out. As they walk, K'ale explains how an ancient curse split the Zerda race, making the mutants everyone now despises. He explains that a group in Rephidim has been working for a way to lift this quest, and that is what they will be hired for.
They arrive at the Nobakhim settlement in Underside, and are greeted with some strange sights. The most disruptive turns out to be of Chit, who appears to be a Savanite, but can speak. This disturbs Sasta and Aaron greatly. The Rabbit's conspiracy theories are supported when Chit explains that the curse was laid by Savanites, and only a princess of that line can reverse it. Mira's airship, the Glutton, is required to transport Chit's group, and the assembled fighters to the desert. Sasta reacts badly, criticizing the whole plan, and prompting angry words between Chit and Kensington. The Korv storms out angrily, and this sobers the cougaress. She affirms the corsair's reliability, and asks to inspect the fighters Chit will be able to provide.