Clain discovers the secret behind the virtual reality system which ensures mankind's stability.
When the Granites nab Phryne during the Star Festival ambush, the temple authorities retaliate with an attack on the secret village in hopes of recovering the priestess.
A glitch in the Granites' getaway ship has them stumped, but Clain uses his hacking skills to reveal a mischievous "doppel" that can't resist a game of hide and seek.
The Granites land their ship out of range of the Fractale system to make repairs; Clain and Phryne take in an eye-opening view of the effects of Fractale's failing structures after they meet a lone antique collector.
After they crash their ship, Clain and an ill Nessa find themselves in the extravagant city of Xanadu under the care of deceptively friendly "doppels."