Synopsis

The chapter opens with the protagonist discovering the children from yesterday's performance being held captive by thugs, with the protagonist considering intervention. Simultaneously, the narrative introduces a martial artist renowned for his face-changing technique, using actual faces instead of masks. A secondary character attempts to extort money from the performer, while the protagonist practices and reflects on the prevalence of conflict in cities. The chapter ends with a confrontation where a person blames the protagonist for some conflict and is then further threatened.