Quick Ben and Kalam Mekhar have joined Ganoes Paran in North Citadel. The Malazans sally from the city to attack the Forkrul Assail besiegers, and win easily when Kalam kills their commanders including Sister Belie. However he uses a knife containing otataral, which attracts the attention of the newly-freed Otataral Dragon. Following their victory the Malazan Host sets out for the south. The Perish Grey Helms, led by Shield Anvil Tanakalian and Destriant Setoc, continue to march eastwards. They are met by a Forkrul Assail legion sent to resupply them.