The third dream level is a snowy mountain fortress dreamed by Eames, which Fischer is told represents Browning's subconscious.
Yusuf, pursued by Robert's projections in the first level, deliberately drives off a bridge, initiating his kick too soon. This causes an avalanche in Eames' level, and removes gravity on Arthur's level, forcing Arthur to improvise a new kick synchronized with the van hitting the water.
In the third layer, Robert reaches the fortress's "strong room" but is shot dead by Mal, who suddenly appears.
Cobb thinks the operation is over, but Ariadne convinces him to go one layer deeper in order to save Robert and redeem the mission.
Saito dies as Eames places explosive charges around the fortress to act as the third layer's "kick."