In a necropolis of sorts, a former priest and a woman witness the arrival of Edgewalker as he walks toward a hooded figure. The hooded figure tells him that he (Edgewalker) is called there to mitigate. They are joined by Shadowthrone and several Hounds of Shadow. The King of High House Shadow complains about Hood's choice of a 'disgusting' meeting place. He also complains about having to wait for someone. Soon thereafter a fourth appears in the distance and with his arrival, the sudden rumble of carriage wheels can be heard.