Synopsis

The chapter reveals the political context of Merelof, highlighting its relative freedom from the capital but the impending threat of palace interference. The protagonists, after meeting Count Merelof's young wife, quickly leave and learn about 'Gula' seeds, which are a fast-growing crop with high nutritional value. They subsequently announce a public bounty for Gula collection, aiming to secure a vital food source and potentially use it to negotiate with Merelof amidst an ongoing food crisis. The chapter also hints at a possible power struggle with the count and his family.