In a hut, likely in Darujhistan, Quick Ben has performed another ritual and is spying on Hairlock. As Kalam is still not fully recovered, Trotts is guarding his back instead. Close to the Gadrobi Hills, Hairlock attacks Paran and Toc. Before Paran can react, the puppet throws Toc into an unknown Warren. Paran faces off with Hairlock, the latter vowing a protracted painful death for Paran, because he dared interfere with his attack on the Hound Gear, back in Pale. As they are about to engage, they hear the howling of Hounds in the distance.