Nora, nursing a headache and hangover, eats a sparse breakfast in the ship’s dining hall while taking in the stark beauty of the ice, islands, and a vast glacier. She sits alone, wary of conversation that might expose her lack of context in this life.

Hugo Lefèvre joins her, introduces himself, and praises her paper on pulsating glaciers, signaling that in this life Nora is a respected glaciologist. Their small talk turns to the oppressive, never-ending daylight of Arctic spring and poor sleep, and Hugo mentions heavy vodka drinking with Ingrid the previous night.

As the boat turns through unusually open April waters—another nod to climate change—Hugo casually tests Nora’s knowledge of their schedule. He confirms they left Longyearbyen on Sunday and hints she drew the short straw.

Hugo then states Nora is today’s spotter. Uncertain what that role entails, Nora pretends confidence and agrees. Hugo wishes her luck, and Nora steels herself, determined to handle the challenge despite her ignorance.