Synopsis

The chapter opens with the knight reflecting on why the villagers of Hastin aren't revolting despite the famine, contrasting it to typical responses. It is revealed that the knight and his companion are from a secret group under the empire’s royalty, the 'Fog of Roano.' The knight, who wishes to help Hastin, defies a decree and seeks information from the villagers to understand the situation better, tasks his companion to mingle with them, and starts exploring, hoping to save the area.