Unwind

Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses the source text's depiction of child abuse and mutilation.

The harvest counselor comes for Roland. He tells them they have the wrong kid. He tells them they want Connor. However, they assure him they want him because of his AB blood. He asks for a priest. They tell him, “Priests give last rites….That’s for people who are dying. You’re not dying” (286). He pleads for more time as they drag him toward the Chop Shop. He tries to get Risa’s attention because she is playing piano above, but she doesn’t look at him. Inside, he can’t hear the music. The room is soundproofed. “Somehow he knew it would be” (287).

The chapter proclaims that “No one knows how it happens. No one knows how it’s done” (287), referencing the Unwind process. “What does it take to unwind the unwanted” (288). Apparently, it takes three hours and 12 surgeons.

Roland asks a nurse if they are putting him under. “By law, we’re required to keep you conscious through the entire procedure” (288), she tells him. She explains that his blood is being replaced as they speak. He says, “I hate this.