The
main character stays up on the beach waiting for the results of
Luke's dive in search of the mask. She and
Vyn discuss how hard the others have been working --
Artem on arranging legal considerations for
Bryce Thatcher and
Joshua Ott as well as making preparations to bring the mask across Nation A's borders if it's found,
Marius on ensuring safe passage for the mask including arranging transport away from the island for the remaining treasure hunters and non-critical Pax staff. Artem and Marius arrive in time for sunrise, at which time the four clearly see the illusive mirage written of in
Janet Winton's riddle, appearing as a specter of Nosta's God of Death reclaiming the scepter-like sculpture in the nearby karst cave. Just then, Luke emerges from the water with the golden mask.