The chapter opens with a description of the current situation in the north. The mataka clan has emerged as the ruler of the northern territory after years of conflict. The current ruler is a man named "rin mataka" , who is known for his "ruthlessness" on the battlefield and for his vast lands and wealth. He is known as "the king of the north" because of his ruthlessness. The narrator informs us that the current ruler's wife, the "duchess cheryl," is expected to arrive in northern territory at noon the next day.