In this chapter, Vandalieu visits a slave-run mine operated by the Hartner Duchy. He discovers that the people displaced from Talosheim over 200 years ago are being forced into illegal labor. Accompanied by , Vandalieu reassures the captives that rescue is imminent, further solidifying his role as a savior for those abandoned by human nations.

This chapter is a transition point. Van stops reacting to threats and starts proactively shaping the continent. His declaration at the end of the chapter— "The living have their kingdoms. Let the dead have their duke. I will build a nation in the wastelands" —officially marks his transition from a vengeful reincarnated soul to a .

: Accompanied by Princess Levia, Vandalieu speaks to the workers and reassures them that help is on the way. Vengeance and Preservation