Synopsis

The chapter begins with the protagonist noticing a teammate, Chohong's, absence. It then transitions to Maria encountering Reorda at a restricted temple. The group learns that parasites have conquered a key fortress, producing orcs and ogres via captured hosts (females) as part of their strategy. The group, reeling from a failed mission that cost Dylan, Hugo and Teresa, must decide how to respond, and debate the ethics of prioritizing civilians over comrades.