In this chapter, we learn that the marquis at the shouning mansion is trying to prevent the escape of the traitor. He has a squad of soldiers on the run, but the guards are not high-ranking. The marquis's superior is at the mansion, and he is demanding that the guards help him execute justice. We learn that this superior is the head of the northern administrative court, and that he is also demanding the help of the embroidered guards. The embroidered guards are of a lower rank than the magistrates, so they are reluctant to help. The master of the palace asks the companion if the crown prince has run into trouble outside, and the companion replies that he has. The companion then tells the master that he can use the opportunity to make the prince owe him a favor. He explains that the merchant who insulted the prince has gone into the palace of the emperors brother, the duke. The prince is terrified, so the companion suggests that they go back to the palace, where they will be able to get the contract for the marriage between the prince and his sister