Torren is out begrudgingly running errands for his aunt, Dr. Crane, when he sees the bedraggled Emberites cresting a hill in the distance. The people of Sparks walk out to meet the Emberites. There are about 400 Emberites, greater than the 322 people native to Sparks. Mary, Ben, and Wilmer, the leaders of the town, are unsure about what to do; they fear resource scarcity. Eventually, they decide that they must at least attempt to help the Emberites, and they lead them toward the village of Sparks.

Told from Lina’s point of view, this chapter recounts how the Emberites made their way to Sparks. Lina and Doon recall leaving Ember, tossing a note into the abyss, and waiting. Once the other Emberites emerge, Mrs. Murdo tells Lina about what happed in Ember: The mayor and his cronies tried to escape in secret, but they drowned in the attempt. Mrs. Murdo told the rest of the Emberites about the exit, and several people died in the chaotic dash that ensued. Both Lina and Mrs. Murdo know that soon Ember’s generators will fail. Lina is disappointed that Sparks doesn’t match the huge, beautiful city that she has always dreamed of, but she feels hopeful, nonetheless.