Arslan's party arrives at the port city of Gilan in search of the reinforcements they need. In the occasion, Narsus meets his old friend Shagard and learns, much to his disappointment, that he is not the same idealist man he used to be. During a meeting with Viceroy Pelagius, Arslan is informed that Gilan is being harassed by pirates, when an incoming merchant ship is attacked by them, and some members of the party rush to their aid.