Aoto and Garius surface above the underground city of Nycon, revealing a ruined world and a distant, glowing monument—one of the mysterious Gates. Returning below, Garius warns Aoto of Nycon’s dangers and its complex class divisions. At their inn, Garius discovers a slave’s tattoo on Aoto, raising questions about his past.

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  The next morning, they begin their journey to Arcad, Nycon’s slums, racing to arrive before sunrise. Along the way, Garius explains the Gates—ancient portals to other realms, both perilous and powerful. As they walk, both boys edge closer to the truths of this world—and their place in it.