The chapter opens with a flashback to the events of the previous chapter, which took place in the "rebels" . In this flashback, the reader is introduced to a number of important characters, including the protagonist, the protagonist's father, and his mother. The protagonist is introduced as an idealistic young man, who has just returned from a trip to Europe. He reflects on the events that have led him to this point in his life, and he realizes that it is too late for him to return to his former self.