Nine years ago, Eshonai defies her family’s caution to map a nearby forest, believing exploration reveals truths rather than steals mysteries. She charts the river, marvels at lifespren and riverspren, and reflects on her people’s small ambitions. Hearing flat, arrhythmic shouts, Eshonai follows the sound and unexpectedly encounters humans.

Meanwhile in camp, Venli completes a lengthy recital of the songs under the guidance of her mother, Jaxlim. Corrected on details, Venli wrestles with envy of Eshonai’s freedom and her own yearning for significance beyond memorization. Jaxlim’s song and presence steady Venli, who admits she has been experimenting with spren in storms to rediscover warform.

Encouraged, Jaxlim proposes taking Venli’s findings to the Five for sanction. Venli hesitates, fearing public failure, but Jaxlim insists that the effort merits community support. Venli explains that painspren might be the key to adopting warform, a breakthrough that could restore lost forms to their people.

They approach the Five, who are discussing tactics for an impending battle. Jaxlim formally presents Venli’s initiative; the elders show interest in attempting new forms despite risks. As attention turns to Venli, warning drums sound from outside the camp, and the elders arm themselves with heirloom weapons.

Venli remains back, expecting a brief skirmish. Instead, word spreads that Eshonai has discovered humans, a momentous revelation that immediately commands the family’s focus. Venli’s announcement is eclipsed as the listeners’ world pivots toward this unprecedented contact.