In the arena, Tzain develops a strategy with the divîners that gives them hope. As water starts to rise, Tzain tries to convince Amari to stay out of the boat, saying that only the three of them know the ritual and if they die she will be needed to complete it. Amari sees Zélie, who despite her fear is preparing for battle, and decides to join them even though she is terrified. As the boats are lifted into the stadium, they realize there are now 30 combatants instead of 10.

Tzain scrambles to come up with a new plan. Zélie panics, believing that she cannot control enough spirits to help them win, but Tzain comforts her and assures her of her capabilities. Zélie jumps into the water and casts from beneath the surface to hide her magic. She summons a spirit and attacks one of the boats, successfully destroying it. She continues summoning with Tzain’s encouragement.

Amari is overwhelmed by the chaos and blood of the battle. Another ship’s crew begins to board their boat, and Tzain calls for her help, but she is frozen with fear.