The volume picks up with Van leaving the village. However, he doesn't get far before running into trouble. Fiona and Van are abruptly met by a sandstorm, and although they escape it unharmed, most of their luggage is swept away. Before they can dwell on the issue, a Venomous Viper appears from under the sands. Piloted by Irvine, it fires some warning shots before telling Van to scram. The situation becomes further complicated when the Venomous Viper is attacked by a Redler. With its guns damaged, the Venomous Viper coils itself and jumps into the air, managing to clip the Redler's wing.