Running for their lives, Ralu, Entu, and Tsyal reach an island with the Viperwolves in hot pursuit. A group of agile Tipani warriors chase away the Viperwolves, but when one of the six-legged creatures threatens to kill Entu, the Tipani Chief is forced to kill the beast. Angry at having to put a creature to death, the warriors decide to test the trio's valor in a symbolic battle using nothing more than wooden spears.

The wooden spear is one of the earliest examples of weaponry ever recorded on Pandora. All clans use wooden spears, but the Tipani are masters of its deadly purpose. It is not within the Tipani to engage in senseless combat. When they must fight, they are very mindful of their choice of weapon. Preference for the spear is based on versatility. A knife is a magnificent close quarters weapon and a bow is unmatched in its range advantages. A spear’s short-range and long-range proficiency affords dominance on the battleground regardless of enemy. Historically speaking, the wooden spear is the first weapon a young Tipani hunter trains with. A centuries-old tradition sees clan elders accompany groups of warrior apprentices into the woods where athleticism and tranquility are put to the test. Success is not measured by the ability to slay a creature, for many come home empty-handed. It is measured by the ability to stalk prey without making one’s presence known. A master warrior must first acquire the art of light-footedness before training in the art of the kill. As the young Tipani develop into expert warriors, they learn to master many different weapons. The bond they form with their first spear is carried throughout life. But, for a Timpani Warrior, its their shield that is a symbol of the protective power of Eywa.

After the intruders unveil their plan to find Toruk, the Clan Chief does not believe one word of their story. She orders them to go home, escorted by two warriors with their impressive shields. This time, it seems as though all is lost for the trio. On the return journey, they reach a steep cliff where the trio try to escape on a Direhorse...in vain.