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In this chapter, Genly Ai prepares for and attends an audience with King Argaven XV of Karhide, only to discover that Estraven has been declared a traitor and exiled for alleged treason. The king, unstable and hostile, expresses distrust and paranoia, warning Ai to trust no one and revealing the fractured political climate. Ai struggles to communicate the purpose of his mission from the Ekumen amid the king's erratic behavior and the tense atmosphere of the palace.

In this chapter, the narrator explores the rural and political landscape of Karhide, observing the slow cultural and technological evolution shaped by the harsh climate of Winter. The political instability in Karhide intensifies under King Argaven's failing sanity and Regent Pemmer Harge rem ir Tibe's aggressive rhetoric, which promotes war as a means to unify the fractured nation. The narrator's attempt to enter Orgoreyn is met with bureaucratic delay and growing suspicion, culminating in a tense encounter with a Foreteller who references the controversial figure Estraven.

In this chapter, the narrator reflects on the political intrigue surrounding the Envoy Genly Ai in Orgoreyn, highlighting the cautious maneuvers of factions within the Thirty-Three and the pervasive atmosphere of fear and secrecy. Despite some support for the Envoy, there is widespread distrust and suppression of information, with the Sarf controlling communications and preventing public discourse about Ai. The narrator also reveals his personal estrangement from both the Envoy and political allies, his attempts to maintain hope, and the oppressive social environment that stifles truth and open dialogue.