Hoa provides some ambiguous context for himself. He outlines an ancient war that he likens to eradicating unwanted vermin (he also hints that humans are the vermin for having cracked the surface of the planet and lost the moon). The problem is that not all the vermin were killed; the survivors became stronger and split into different factions, all with their own interests—many of which do not even pertain to the original conflict.

Hoa claims he was once vengeful but now wants to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. He says that “we” (the other stone eaters who originally tried to eradicate the vermin) cannot be permitted to win. Finally, he admits that he has already betrayed Essun and plots her death because it is necessary.

Nassun reflects on childhood memories of her parents. Regarding Essun, she remembers the strict rules, the constant commands, the physical punishment, and the “[endless] displeasure” that her mother inflicted upon her to teach her how to hide her orogeny. Her memories of Jija are the opposite: He made her toys, took her fishing on his days off, and told her stories about the stars.