The Extermination Team returns to Knov's Nen space. Morel announces seven minutes left, with everyone free to prepare until the one-minute countdown. Knuckle runs the plan one last time with Meleoron: tap his shoulder ten seconds before he needs air, tap again the instant he holds his breath. Knuckle wonders if he is overcomplicating it — while high above East Gorteau, an enormous creature takes wing.