Torogai explains to Shuga that the prince will be inevitably killed by the Egg Eater once the egg of the water spirit hatches. He agrees to return to the court and decipher the remainder of the ancient stone scrolls. Shuga later goes to see Gakai, who has been relieved of his position due to Sagum's death. Nevertheless, Shuga pleads for Gakai to assist him in his studies. Chagum, Balsa, Tanda, and Torogai move into a cave named Hunter's Hole, where they gather firewood and food to prepare for the winter season. Soon, winter arrives and the mountains become impassable.