Back in Wonderland, Dodge undertakes one of the most dangerous missions for the rebel cause: making “portal runs” to deliver information, as the Crystal Continuum is the safest communication method for the Alyssians, thanks to the interference of Redd’s Glass Eyes—artificial humanoid creatures who have superhuman abilities and are controlled by Redd via the crystals in their eye sockets. Dodge has made more portal runs than any other soldier, and he likes doing it. The rush gives him a momentary sense of relief from his deep grief, anger, and cynicism—feelings resulting as much from his experiences in Redd’s Wonderland as from his father’s and Alyss’s deaths. After completing his portal run, Dodge decides to go to the Pool of Tears, even though he knows it is risky; he reminds himself that he must stay alive for the sake of vengeance.

Alice is 18 now and has mostly conformed to her surrounding society. She is much sought-after by men of good rank due to her beauty and intelligence; however, she is interested in none of them. When Alice turns 20, Mrs. Liddell wants her to choose a husband, but Alice protests that she feels nothing for any of these men. Shortly after, Alice meets Prince Leopold, son of the queen of England.