At a hungry roadside camp a stranger claims he can trade any item—a broken bowl, a stick, even firewood—for food, so families won't have to sell wives or daughters. Jack believes him, but skeptical Yadiel and others point out Martial Mountain has no wealthy travelers and collectors demand tribute. The stranger insists and urges everyone to try. The group debates whether to take immediate porridge or risk the stranger's promise. Mayra is called forward; Carlos no longer considers her his wife, and she must choose—porridge now or the uncertain trade.