I-8. Chiri-Chiri

An interlude chapter from Chiri-Chiri's perspective as she observes Rysn discussing the revelation of the Sleepless with her mentor Babsk. Chiri-Chiri senses an ominous rhythm warning of difficult times ahead and makes her first attempt at mimicking human speech.

Chiri-Chiri, a small creature larger and more intelligent than ordinary cremlings, struggles to hide in her pot on Rysn's desk. She observes Rysn and her mentor Babsk discussing the existence of the Sleepless—beings that exist among humans but are fundamentally inhuman. Babsk expresses confusion and concern about what Rysn has revealed, worrying that the more people who know, the more danger she faces. Rysn insists she needed to tell someone and asks for his wisdom, though Babsk claims his knowledge does not extend to matters involving gods. He reflects on his guilt over past failures with Rysn. Through physical contact, the two share an emotional understanding. Before leaving, Babsk speaks the word "Dawnshards" with a tone of disbelief and wonder. Chiri-Chiri senses a warning from the land itself—vibrations resembling the hollow carapaces of dead creatures she encountered in the homeland, suggesting difficult times are coming and that she must do more than simply pursue easy comfort. After Babsk departs, Chiri-Chiri attempts to mimic human speech, surprising Rysn by producing sounds approximating "eat" and "Rysn," causing Rysn to drop her tea in shock.