Benjamin says that ultimately, he couldn’t support Noa’s plan. He tells Letta not to drink the water and to forbid everyone else from drinking it as well. Edgeware tells Letta that it’s important to remember that people did good things as well as bad.

As they take turns watching Benjamin, he tells Letta that Noa offered him immunity from what is coming next. He coughs, and his mouth glows blue. Benjamin says that Noa plans to make them wordless. He says that her parents love her, and he has left a package for her in his study. Letta must open it once she has stopped Noa. Finally, he says, “Just remember… the birds still fly south” (220). He hugs her as she thinks Love. Heart. Warmth. They don’t need words for this moment.

After Benjamin dies, Letta thinks about Noa’s plan as it begins to snow. Edgeware chants “old verses that she said would shelter his fleeing spirit” (222). “Hallowed by thy name” (223). After they bury Benjamin, rage overcomes Letta. Marlo tells her that Finn will let her live with them, but she says she has to go back.

Letta believes she can fight Noa best from within Ark, as a wordsmith.