Dafyd wakes beside Else and fixates on what the Carryx’s choices might mean, starting with why the humans’ rooms have windows. Else challenges him to stop spiraling, but Dafyd insists that understanding the Carryx matters because their behavior feels inconsistent: they hoard species and power yet discourage inquiry, provide little guidance, and react oddly to offers of help. Dafyd admits he fears losing what little stability and connection they still have.

Jessyn notices Tonner’s restored medication working because her recurring fantasies shift from suicide to murder, especially replaying the lab attack where Irinna died. Over improvised “tea,” Jessyn tells Synnia she can clearly feel the difference: she can function again, even if her thoughts remain dark. They share small talk and memories while avoiding their deeper grief and fears.

In the common room, Tonner, Rickar, and Campar study the resonance imager results on the Night Drinker gel weapon derived from the modified “berries.” They debate missing cofactors, but Rickar believes they are inert and the active agent is correct. Jessyn pushes for a field test, proposing they take the weapon to the Night Drinkers’ wall; after a charged pause, the group agrees and decides not to involve the others.

At the cathedral wall, a Night Drinker spots them and retreats, raising alarm. Jessyn begins the attack by throwing gel bulbs into the holes; Tonner follows. One miss splatters on the wall and unexpectedly melts the infill into black fluid. Night Drinkers swarm out screaming and disoriented; Rickar strikes one with a crowbar while the others are hit by gel and collapse or writhe as companions try to help. When ammunition runs low, the humans back away, using the last bulbs as a threat, and the Night Drinkers do not pursue.

Back in their rooms, Else and Synnia demand answers as the group reports the results: the weapon works without the cofactors and also damages the wall material. The mood turns into a communal victory dinner, with Jessyn recognizing the men’s scientific excitement as relief at finally feeling powerful and safe. Dafyd warns that using the weapon may mean accepting the Carryx’s intended game, but Campar argues they cannot change the rules, and Jessyn bluntly notes that ignoring reality got Irinna killed; Jessyn ends the night sleeping deeply.