On Nilt, Breq and Seivarden travel to the relatively temperate city of Therrod, famous for the elaborate system of ancient glass bridges, makers and origin unknown, which crisscross the ravines outside the city. Breq finds lodging for herself and Seivarden near a medical facility, and they soon cross paths with the girl who brought her injured uncle to Strigan, now in Therrod with her mother as their family member recuperates. The girl urges Breq to hear a performance by a singer, the girl’s cousin. Seivarden, who accompanies Breq to the performance, expresses scorn for Nilter “music” and walks out. Later, Breq learns from the girl and her mother that Seivarden sold Breq’s flier to a stranger. Breq finds Seivarden asleep in their room, passed out from kef purchased with the flier money.

Breq packs her belongings and leaves on foot, determined to be done with Seivarden. However, Seivarden follows her and catches up as Breq crosses one of the glass bridges. Seivarden reveals her belief that Breq is a Radchaai special agent sent to track her down and bring her into custody. When Breq turns to confront her, Seivarden falls from the bridge but manages to grab hold of a dangling spiral of glass.