Main Events
Richard and Kahlan travel toward Agadon Reach, discussing dragons. Kahlan explains that dragons are real in the Midlands, with red dragons being the largest, smartest, and most dangerous. She finds it very odd that a red dragon would submit to carrying Lord Darken Rahl, as they are fiercely independent and would rather die than be ruled.
An old man calling himself John approaches them, claiming that Zeddicus Zu'l Zorander sent him to bring them to the wizard. Richard is excited to see Zeddicus Zu'l Zorander again and follows John, but becomes suspicious when he notices that John doesn't break spiderwebs or leave footprints. Richard realizes John is actually a calthrop—a shape-shifting creature—and draws his sword. The calthrop transforms into a massive beast but flees when something scares it.
Samuel, Shota's companion, attacks Richard, trying to steal the Sword of Truth, claiming it belongs to him. Richard captures Samuel and forces him to lead the way to Agadon Reach. They travel through dangerous terrain, including a dark wood filled with threats, eventually reaching Shota's beautiful valley and palace.