The Maze Runner, #1
The Maze Runner
by James Dashner
Contents
Chapter 9
Overview
In the stunned aftermath of the girl’s arrival, Med-jacks declare her comatose while Alby imposes strict protection and calls a Gathering. Thomas wrestles with a strange connection to her, learns Runners make maps, and questions whether the Glade is a prison. Exploring the Glade, he spots and chases a beetle blade marked WICKED into the woods, heightening the sense of surveillance.
Summary
Silence grips the Glade after Newt reads the note from the girl. Alby summons the Med-jacks, Clint and Jeff, who examine her and conclude she is alive but likely in a coma. Alby warns everyone not to touch her on pain of banishment and orders a constant watch near Ben’s room, signaling her importance.
Thomas, unsettled by a vague familiarity with the girl and the Gladers’ suspicion, is questioned by Alby and Newt. Though unsure, Thomas denies knowing her. Sensing larger implications, Alby quietly tells Newt to call a Gathering of the Keepers.
Seeking normalcy, Thomas eats with Chuck and asks about becoming a Runner. Chuck explains that Runners meet nightly to compare and analyze maps of the Maze. The idea of mapping sparks Thomas’s hope but also dread as he wonders if the Glade is a prison for criminals, a thought Chuck rejects.
Thomas explores the Glade: the cultivated fields, the livestock pens, and the well-kept order that sustains their community. The routine steadies him, though it underscores how trapped they are behind moving walls.
Near the forest, Thomas spots a metallic, many-legged beetle blade sweeping a red light across the ground, seemingly labeled WICKED. Convinced it is spying on them, he sprints after it into the dark trees, determined to investigate the watchers behind the Maze.
Who Appears
- ThomasFeels an inexplicable link to the girl, questions leadership, seeks to be a Runner, explores, and chases a beetle blade.
- AlbyTakes charge, forbids anyone touching the girl, orders constant watch, and calls a Gathering.
- NewtReads the note, supports Alby’s decisions, suggests the girl is special, and backs calling a Gathering.
- ChuckFeeds Thomas, explains the Gathering and that Runners make maps, doubts the prison theory.
- ClintMed-jack who examines the girl, declares likely coma, helps move her to the Homestead.
- JeffMed-jack partner to Clint; helps transport the comatose girl and plans to monitor her.
- The GirlNew arrival with ominous note; alive but comatose, placed under watch near Ben’s room.