This chapter opens with a description of a "square hole" in the center of the empire. It is deep, and nearly half of the population lives in the vicinity. The reincarnated soldiers have gathered to search for codes in order to increase their numbers. The commander of the brigade, brigadier-general Newkey, tells the other soldiers that he wishes to kill the rebel commander, Enosay. He also tells them that he has a new task to complete, namely the search for holy relics. They are interrupted by Enosay, who asks them if they know of the whereabouts of the rebel leader. They reply that they do, and Enosay says that he will kill him at once. Newkey tells Enosay that if the mission is successful, he will be promoted to general and then he will have Enosay as his subordinate. Enosay tells him not to use his name too lightly, as he is afraid that Enosay wants to kill them both. They have only just arrived in their homeland, and there is no way to get rid of Enosay