Ep. 8

Summary

Source-backed · Version: v1 · Original

Riko and Reg begin Ozen’s ten-day survival exercise in a dark region beyond Seeker Camp. They locate clean water by identifying rohanas, repel a dangerous aquatic creature with fire, and struggle to obtain food while learning to compensate for Riko’s physical limits and Reg’s hesitation. Over several days they refine their teamwork, eventually hunt an ottoba, and preserve enough meat to finish the assignment. Ozen observes from afar and remembers the expedition that brought Riko upward: after Lyza’s husband and newborn child died, Ozen initially considered abandoning the infant and carrying the valuable Unheard Bell instead, but ultimately bore the heavy Vessel to the surface. Riko and Reg return after ten days and pass. Ozen warns them that time becomes increasingly distorted in deeper layers and advises avoiding other White Whistles. Examining the mysterious message, she notes that its material is an unknown, nearly indestructible relic, strengthening the possibility that Lyza lives. Ozen gives Riko the Blaze Reap, Lyza’s damaged weapon, teaches its limited use, and shares closely guarded knowledge about deeper layers. After Marulk’s tearful farewell, Riko and Reg depart for the Great Fault, while Ozen remembers promising Lyza that she would help Riko continue her chosen path.