Chapter 15, To the Ice Summary

When Genly and Estraven wake up, Genly asks Estraven where they will go. The harbors are frozen, and ships don't go far in winter so they will have to hide until spring. Returning via road would be impossible, as they would be stopped by the first Inspector. Their only option is to trek across the Gobrin, an ice sheet, and they would need a good deal of luck to survive the journey. Estraven then leaves the tent, saying that he will be back late or may be gone overnight. He asks Genly if he will be all right by himself.

Estraven does not return until nightfall of the next day. He brings back a sack of food and supplies he stole in Turuf. Estraven is not proud of having stolen, so Genly asks no more about it...