In this pivotal chapter, the atmosphere in the Glade shifts dramatically as the boys face their first real encounter with a Griever. After the previous day's tension and fear surrounding the Maze, Thomas and the other Gladers are on edge, aware that the night brings dangers that could threaten their lives.

As night descends upon the Glade, the rules governing the boys’ existence are put to the test. The chapter begins with the Gladers preparing for the worst, knowing the Grievers—monstrous creatures that roam the Maze at night—are a constant threat. Thomas, still grappling with his newfound memories and the reality of their situation, senses that something is about to happen. The camaraderie among the boys is palpable, but so is the fear of the unknown.

The tension escalates quickly when the boys hear the ominous sounds of the Grievers approaching. Panic ensues as they scramble to find safety, remembering the warnings about the lethal nature of the creatures. Thomas, driven by instinct and courage, takes charge, encouraging his fellow Gladers to stick together and follow him to safety. This act of bravery highlights his emerging leadership qualities and deepens the bond he shares with the other boys.

However, the encounter does not go as planned. As they attempt to flee, one of the Gladers, Alby, gets separated from the group, and in a desperate moment, he confronts a Griever. The scene is intense and chaotic, with the boys witnessing firsthand the brutality of the Grievers. The horror of the situation is compounded by the loss of Alby, who sacrifices himself in an attempt to save Thomas and the others. His tragic fate serves as a stark reminder of the stakes they are facing in their fight for survival.

As the chapter progresses, Thomas and the remaining Gladers manage to escape the immediate danger, but the emotional toll is significant. The loss of Alby weighs heavily on the group, and they are left to grapple with the implications of their vulnerability in the face of such monstrous threats. This moment marks a turning point for the boys, as they realize that the Maze is not just a physical challenge, but a psychological one as well, filled with dangers that could cost them their lives.

The chapter concludes with a sense of urgency and determination among the Gladers. They understand that they need to adapt and become stronger if they are to survive the challenges that lie ahead. The encounter with the Griever serves as a catalyst for change, pushing Thomas and the others to become more proactive in their quest to escape the Maze and uncover the truth about their existence. This chapter effectively heightens the stakes for the boys, setting the stage for the escalating conflicts and emotional struggles that will follow.