It is year 25 of the TSYN Era. The earth is threatened by a liquid invader. A resistance committee has taken refuge in a huge cellar. Four square pillars support the foundation. Each face of the pillars is guarded by a member of the Resistance. Terril Songe is in charge of this temple. Her day begins with the Ritual of the 16 faces as she goes around to say good morning to the members of the Resistance. Terril's companion is a strange mutant bird, the Bird of Nédée.