In the 63rd period of the novel, we are introduced to a new character, a "secret tower for two" . This character, who we learn is named "Spandau," is a member of the elite Air Service who has been training for the past four hours. He has been injured in a combat training exercise and is now returning home to recuperate. He is accompanied by his wife, Asuna, who is also a combat instructor. Asuna tells her husband that she has heard voices in the distance and that they have come from the tropics. She asks him if he would like to dry off Spandau before going back to battle. He replies that he would only like to find out what is wrong.