In the aftermath of the Chalcedean attack on Bingtown, the citizens gather to await a deal from Tintaglia, the dragon. The Old Traders, New Traders, Tattooed, and Three Ships immigrants all argue about what to do when Tintaglia appears. Reyn cautions everyone against dealing with her, but his mother, Jani, strikes a deal on behalf of the town. All goes well until Malta is brought up and a second deal is made.