A Better World

Despite the unsettling nature of their interview with Jack Lust, Linda and Russell Bowen are left with a sense of urgency about the opportunity in Plymouth Valley (PV). PV, the crown jewel of BetterWorld, has been named the most beautiful place to live in North America for three consecutive years. With a population of 4,501 and a top-notch K–12 school system, the town boasts a rich history and advanced infrastructure. Once the primary production site for Omnium, a revolutionary synthetic material that propelled BetterWorld to global dominance, the town now serves as a hub for high-level corporate executives. Though the mill has closed, Omnium continues to be produced in over 1,000 facilities worldwide. PV features a self-sustaining farm and a survivor shelter equipped with the nation's only private nuclear reactor, emphasizing its self-reliance and advanced technology. The local culture is encapsulated by the term 'Hollow,' a catchphrase that expresses community spirit and solidarity. However, the chapter subtly hints at the underlying complexities and potential dangers that might lie beneath the surface of this seemingly perfect town.

Jack Lust, a BetterWorld representative, interviews Linda and Russell Bowen for a potential job in Plymouth Valley. Despite the unsettling nature of the interview, where Jack emphasizes the importance of character and fitting in, Russell is offered a second interview in the company town. The chapter delves into the economic and social collapse of the outside world, highlighting the urgency of the Bowens' need for this job.

During the interview, Jack reveals that the town will be underwater in ten years, but Plymouth Valley is designed to withstand such changes. Linda and Russell discuss their financial struggles, including the possibility of selling Linda’s engagement ring or dipping into their children’s college fund. Russell’s subsequent phone call confirming his second interview brings a mix of relief and anxiety.

Zach Greene gives Linda and the children a tour of the town, explaining the town’s customs and the Hollow culture, which includes gratitude, ceremonies, and the care of the caladrius. The tour includes a visit to the underground survivor shelter, where Linda experiences a moment of unease, seeing something moving in the darkness. Despite her reservations, Linda and Russell decide to accept the offer, recognizing the opportunity as their best chance for a better life. The chapter concludes with their departure from New York, leaving behind their old lives and the uncertainty of the future.

The origins and characteristics of the caladrius, a genetically engineered bird, are explored in Chapter 3. Created by BetterWorld scientists as an alternative food source, the caladrius requires minimal sustenance and grows rapidly without hormones, leaving a much smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional livestock. These birds are designed to thrive in Plymouth Valley, where advanced environmental controls ensure their well-being. The caladrius is known for its solitary nature, grouping only for hunting or mating, and fails to thrive outside the town, highlighting the effectiveness of Plymouth Valley’s environmental management.

The chapter also delves into the caladrius's unique sensitivity to pollution and its historical significance. Genetic material for the caladrius was sourced from preserved fossils in Pompeii, linking it to ancient Roman mythology. According to legend, caladrius birds were used by Roman physicians to consume the sickness of kings, after which they would fly into the sun to burn away the illness, purifying the land. Emperors Caligula and Claudius kept these birds at court, adding to the town's cultural and scientific achievements. This information enriches the reader's understanding of Plymouth Valley and hints at the town's broader role in preserving and advancing ancient knowledge.

The caladrius, a symbol of Plymouth Valley's advanced environmental controls, serves as a backdrop to the broader historical context explored in Chapter 4. The mid-twenty-first century is marked by scarcity, which accelerated institutional corruption, causing excess deaths to quadruple and life expectancy to plummet to sixty-two years. Refugees fared even worse, with an average lifespan of just fifty-seven years. In stark contrast, the inhabitants of walled-off company towns, such as Plymouth Valley, maintained health and longevity, with life spans extending into the triple digits.

The chapter highlights the rise of magical thinking and a growing skepticism toward the scientific method, leading to the emergence of violent religious cults. These cults often framed reality into emotionally resonant narratives, creating a specious belief system where unrelated events were perceived as causally linked. This shift in collective consciousness is presented as a critical factor in the Great Unwinding of the modern nation-state, characterized by climate devastation, mass dislocations, and the breakdown of traditional governance structures.

The chapter concludes by setting the stage for the next part of the narrative, promising a deeper exploration of the Great Unwinding and its impact on Plymouth Valley, specifically within the colony of South Dakota. This forward-looking segment suggests that the town's unique position and the beliefs of its residents will be central to understanding the broader societal changes.

The Farmer-Bowen family's transition to Plymouth Valley is initially smooth, marked by a lack of the usual trials and tribulations faced by new arrivals. They settle into their new home, learning to navigate the smart house and familiarizing themselves with the town's customs and amenities. The family spends time exploring the town, meeting the caladrius, and engaging in various activities, gradually shedding the anxieties of their former life. Linda, in particular, begins to relax, enjoying the interim period between their old and new lives, though she remains aware of the subtle divisions between the native PV residents and newcomers like herself.

As the family settles in, deeper emotional connections begin to form. One evening, Hip and Josie go for a long walk without Linda, prompting her to confront and slowly release her overprotective tendencies. Russell, who is thriving in his new job, opens up about his difficult relationship with his father, revealing deep-seated pain and the impact it had on his life. This unexpected moment of vulnerability brings the family closer, fostering a level of honesty and understanding they had never achieved before. However, after two months of this newfound closeness and relaxation, the family begins to feel the need for a new challenge, signaling a shift in their adaptation process and a readiness to engage more deeply with their new environment.

The crisp September air carries a sense of anticipation as Linda and Russell prepare for Hip's first soccer game with the Rocs, but the community's cold reception and the game's strict rules dampen their spirits. In contrast, Chapter 6 shifts focus to the Plymouth Valley Guide to Offerings, a comprehensive document detailing the types of offerings residents are expected to make throughout the year. These offerings are intricately tied to the changing seasons and specific festivals, blending ancient traditions with the town's unique customs. During the warmer months from Beltane to Samhain, residents are encouraged to offer wildflowers, clover, honey, and dried berries. As the weather cools, the offerings shift to more substantial items like fresh eggs, legumes, and grains, culminating in the winter months with the heaviest offerings, including feathers, bones, leather, and meat.

The chapter also emphasizes the importance of personal and sentimental items in the offerings, particularly during the Winter Festival to Beltane period. Children in the PV K–12 school craft weekly offerings in their art classes, and interested adults and young children can enroll in crafting sessions at the PV library. Offering deliveries take place every Saturday, and residents are reminded to notify their quadrant representative if they prefer not to participate. This structured and ritualistic approach to offerings underscores the town's emphasis on community and tradition, while also hinting at a deeper, possibly darker, significance behind these practices.

On a crisp September morning, Linda and Russell prepare for Hip's first soccer game with the Rocs, bringing along donuts and tea. Despite their efforts to integrate, they find the community in Plymouth Valley to be cold and unwelcoming, with the parents and children maintaining a superficial friendliness that lacks genuine warmth. The game itself is tense and competitive, with strict rules against cheering, and Hip is benched for the entire game, leading to a disastrous final penalty kick that costs the Rocs the match.

After the game, Linda and Russell struggle to console their disappointed children, particularly Hip, who feels humiliated. The tension between the Farmer-Bowens and the town residents is palpable, with some parents openly criticizing Hip's performance. Russell confides in Linda about his difficulties at work, where he feels isolated and undermined by his colleagues, and the looming threat of a lawsuit that could jeopardize their future in Plymouth Valley. Linda suggests a more assertive approach, urging Russell to document the issues and request an assistant, despite the potential backlash.

Reflecting on their challenges, Linda and Russell acknowledge the deep-seated fear and resentment among the town's long-term residents towards newcomers. They consider the possibility that the town's exclusionary behavior is a form of self-preservation, driven by the limited number of golden tickets and the fear of losing their secure, protected lives. Despite the obstacles, they reaffirm their commitment to each other and their determination to find a way to succeed in Plymouth Valley.

Russell and Linda collaborate to address the challenges they face in Plymouth Valley. Russell shows Linda the flawed Omnium studies he has compiled, seeking her professional advice. Linda agrees that the studies are inadequate and suggests that Russell gather new data and seek support from the board to strengthen the court case, thereby protecting his position at BetterWorld.

Later, Linda heads to the hospital for her shift. She seeks advice from Greg Hamstead, a seasoned nurse, on fitting in, but his nonchalant response frustrates her. During her shift, a distressed man named Percy Khoury bursts into the hospital, accusing the staff of hiding his deceased son. Greg explains that Percy, a former nuclear engineer with severe mental illness, frequently visits the hospital, searching for his son, who died in a tunnel accident. This encounter underscores the town's limitations in addressing severe mental health issues.

Linda then meets with Dr. Mitch Chernin, the director of emergency medicine, who offers insights into the town's culture and the challenges of integrating as a newcomer. Chernin emphasizes that the first year is a trial by fire and that acceptance hinges on becoming indispensable. He also mentions that the shift Linda received was controversial, causing tension with a senior attending. Linda expresses her desire to stay and inquires about additional shifts or opportunities, but Chernin advises patience and warns against ActHollow, a high-rolling organization.

The ninth chapter of 'A Better World' builds anticipation for the upcoming Crowning of the Beltane King, a significant annual event in Plymouth Valley. The announcement, issued by the Board of Directors, invites all residents to celebrate on Friday, September 21, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Caladrius Park. The event, which promises refreshments and festivities, is sponsored by the Board of Directors, including familiar names such as John Parson Junior, Lloyd Bennett, Rachel Johnson, Jack Lust, and others. As the news spreads through the town, the Farmer-Bowens, still new to Plymouth Valley, feel a mix of excitement and nervousness about attending. The inclusion of the Board of Directors in the announcement underscores the event's importance and the town's hierarchical structure, hinting at the potential for deeper community involvement and the possibility of new conflicts or revelations.

The Farmer-Bowens attend their first Hollow event, the Crowning of the Beltane King, feeling a mix of nervousness and eagerness to integrate into the community. At Caladrius Park, the entire board of directors, led by the aged John Parson Junior, presides over the ceremony. Keith, Parson’s grandson, is crowned with a gilded crown made of bird bones and given a hydrogen torch to carry through the labyrinthine tunnels beneath the park.

Following the ceremony, Keith runs through the tunnels, a test of physical prowess that the town takes very seriously. The crowd watches in hushed anticipation, and when Keith emerges in record time, the spectators erupt in rhythmic applause. The Farmer-Bowens, still trying to grasp the town’s customs, join in the celebration, though they remain uncertain about the true meaning behind these rituals.

After the event, the family walks home, reflecting on the strangeness of the town and their growing discomfort. Linda and Russell’s conversation reveals their mounting fears and the strain of adapting to Plymouth Valley. Their lovemaking that night is a hesitant attempt at comfort, highlighting their shared sense of unease and vulnerability.

The hazing of the Farmer-Bowen family escalates after the Rocs' crushing 5-1 defeat in the soccer game. Linda and Russell's efforts to connect with the community are met with growing coldness, and their children, Hip and Josie, bear the brunt of the exclusion. Linda feels a heavy sense of responsibility for the family's isolation, wondering if there is some unspoken code they have yet to decipher.

On their way home, they find a luxury SUV parked at their driveway, driven by a strikingly beautiful woman named Daniella Bennett. Despite her initial wariness, Linda and the family greet her politely. Daniella, who reveals herself as a former outsider, extends an invitation to Linda for a dinner at Sirin’s Bar and Grill that evening, hinting at a potential job opportunity at the medical clinic. The invitation is delivered with a blend of charm and subtle condescension, leaving Linda both flattered and cautious.

After Daniella departs, Linda delves into research on ActHollow, the charity organization Daniella represents, and uncovers that its members are all high-ranking BetterWorld officials. The prospect of the dinner fills her with a mix of hope and anxiety. She spends time preparing, rehearsing responses to potential questions, and ultimately decides to dress casually in jeans and a sweater. Her family, visibly strained from their social challenges, eat pizza in the kitchen, looking weary and dispirited. Linda reassures them that she will be fine and heads out, hoping this opportunity might improve their situation in Plymouth Valley.

Linda attends a dinner meeting with ActHollow, a high-profile charity organization in Plymouth Valley, hoping to secure a position at the town's pediatric clinic. The dinner is held at Sirin’s Bar and Grill, a former stone church, where Linda meets the group's members, including Rachel Johnson and Anouk Parson. Initially, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with the women sharing personal stories and discussing the challenges of life in Plymouth Valley.

However, the evening takes a dramatic turn when Gal Parker, a former insider now facing expulsion, crashes the dinner. Gal’s erratic behavior and emotional outburst expose the dark underbelly of the town's social dynamics. Despite the group's efforts to handle the situation discreetly, Gal's presence disrupts the meeting, and she is eventually escorted out by the police. Linda, shaken by the experience, ends up staying at Gal’s house for a short while, where she learns about the severe health issues of Gal’s children and the town’s harsh policies.

Linda returns home late at night, disturbed by the evening's events and the stark contrast between the town's facade of perfection and the hidden suffering. She and Russell share a moment of intimacy, and Linda reflects on the complexity of their situation in Plymouth Valley, hinting at the challenges and moral dilemmas they may face.

Apple Rose Rodriguez, a 109-year-old Milwaukee resident, reflects on the pre-disaster era in a first-person account. Her narrative delves into the pervasive fear and uncertainty that gripped society, emphasizing the constant threat of nuclear annihilation and environmental collapse. Rodriguez describes the daily struggles of living in a world where basic necessities like food, water, and electricity were unreliable. She recalls the desperation and paranoia that led to a breakdown in social cohesion, contrasting this with the cooperative and seemingly utopian environment of Plymouth Valley. The psychological toll of living in a state of perpetual anxiety is vividly portrayed, likening the human experience to that of rats subjected to unpredictable conditions. This chapter serves as a historical context, deepening the reader's understanding of the societal and environmental collapse that necessitated the creation of enclaves like Plymouth Valley. It highlights the stark contrast between the chaotic past and the present stability of the town, setting the stage for further exploration of Plymouth Valley's role in this new world.

Linda wakes up to the lingering scent of burning and a note from the Plymouth Valley Police Department, thanking her for using their car. Despite her hangover, she decides to check in with the members of ActHollow, bringing Hip along for the ride. As they drive through town, the air is thick with a somber atmosphere; residents whisper and some wear masks, hinting at a recent tragedy.

At Lust’s Bakery, Linda learns that a residential home on the southwest side of town was set ablaze, leaving the community reeling. Concerned, she visits Rachel Johnson’s house, where she meets Kai Choi Johnson, who reluctantly explains that the fire involved Gal Parker and her children. Linda feels a deep sense of responsibility, remembering her visit to Gal’s house and the disturbing conversation they had.

Linda and Hip then visit the Parson family’s mansion, where they encounter Keith Parson, the Beltane King, who dismisses the donuts and provides a glimpse into the town’s rigid social norms. At Daniella Bennett’s house, Linda finally gets a full account of the incident: Gal Parker had attempted to burn down her house with her children inside, but managed to save them at the last moment. The children are in critical care, and Gal is severely burned. Daniella advises Linda not to blame herself and confirms that ActHollow will move forward with her candidacy.

Linda and Hip return to the site of the fire, where the damage is evident. Linda finds her device, with messages from Daniella, Anouk, and Gal, the latter expressing remorse. The chapter ends with Linda reflecting on the town’s secrets and the complex emotions surrounding the incident.

By morning, the landscape of Plymouth Valley had transformed, with red candles and black ribbons burned to nubs in front of almost every house, a silent tribute to the victims of the recent fire. Linda and the children encounter a somber atmosphere during the school drop-off, where a fight breaks out between two parents, only to be quelled by a communal hissing from the onlookers. The incident highlights the town's peculiar customs and the underlying tensions simmering beneath the surface.

Later, at the hospital, Linda deals with a series of minor complaints and a distraught mother convinced her baby has cancer. Despite the chaos, she offers a sympathetic ear, reflecting on the town's recent tragedy and her own role in it.

That evening, Rachel Johnson invites Linda over for a meal, where she discusses the town's dynamics, the fate of Gal Parker, and the importance of ActHollow in securing a stable future. Rachel warns Linda about the town's superficial displays of empathy and the hidden power structures that truly govern the community. She also reveals that Linda's house was not previously Gal's, dispelling a misconception. Rachel emphasizes the trial nature of their stay and the importance of aligning with ActHollow for long-term security. Linda accepts the offer to join ActHollow, understanding the significance of this opportunity for both her and Russell's future in Plymouth Valley.

Late that night, Linda and Russell reflect on recent events, with Linda expressing guilt over Gal's situation. Russell reassures her, and they receive messages that hint at a shift in their standing within the community, suggesting a potential turning point in their integration into Plymouth Valley.

In the wake of the town's somber atmosphere, the Farmer-Bowens find themselves navigating the intricate web of Plymouth Valley's traditions and festivals. Chapter 16 of 'A Better World' delves into the cultural fabric of the town, detailing the four major holidays: Beltane, Samhain, Thanksgiving, and the Winter Festival. Each festival is rich with unique customs and symbolic meanings, providing a deeper understanding of the town's values and the roles its residents play.

Beltane, marking the arrival of spring, features maypole dancing, a talent show, and a bonfire, where children with illnesses are given black ribbons for communal healing. The Beltane King is crowned, and the event emphasizes the town's celebration of renewal and growth. Samhain, the most popular holiday, involves trick-or-treating for children and a haunted maze for adults, culminating in the sacrifice of a pecked caladrius at midnight, symbolizing the acknowledgment of life's uncertainties and the town's good fortune.

Thanksgiving in Plymouth Valley is a day of acknowledging roots and community, starting with a mandatory race for all residents between 13 and 90 years old, followed by a feast featuring caladrius as the main dish. The holiday underscores the town's recognition of finite resources and the need for balance. The Winter Festival, a three-day event during the darkest days of the year, allows residents to let off steam and is exclusively for town members, emphasizing the importance of community bonding and resilience.

All Hollow traditions are hosted by resident volunteers, encouraging participation and community involvement. This detailed guidebook serves as a roadmap for the Farmer-Bowens and other newcomers, hinting at the deeper layers of tradition and the potential challenges of fully integrating into this tightly-knit community.

The Farmer-Bowens find themselves swiftly integrated into Plymouth Valley, almost as if the hazing they endured never happened. Hip and Josie quickly make friends, Russell is invited to lunch with his team, and the community begins to treat them as if they've always been part of the town. Linda meets with Zach, who praises their progress and assures her that their status in PV is secure.

Linda, now working two jobs, hires a housekeeper, Esperanza Lopez, who maintains the house with minimal interaction with the family. The town's transformation and the Farmer-Bowens' improved standing are evident in the warm greetings from the border guard, Sally Claus, and the increased number of patients at the free clinic. Linda also learns that the Parker children have been sent to reunite with Trish in Palo Alto, while Gal remains in the hospital.

At the clinic, Linda treats a variety of minor ailments and a more serious case involving a six-month-old boy, Carlos, whom she suspects has a rare form of cancer. Despite her efforts to convince Carlos's family to seek further treatment, they are hesitant due to their distrust of the town. Linda's frustration and concern highlight the ongoing challenges of gaining the community's trust.

The chapter concludes with a Saturday night gathering at the Farmer-Bowen household, where Hip and Cathy Bennett's relationship continues to grow, and Josie socializes with her new friends. Linda and Russell attend a dinner at Sirin’s, where they mingle with the town’s elite and discuss the clinic's progress. Russell receives praise from his boss, Heinrich, and celebrates getting an extension for the court case, although his celebration without Linda stirs old insecurities and memories of their past struggles.

The week leading up to Samhain in Plymouth Valley is filled with excitement and anticipation. The Plymouth Valley Chamber of Commerce announces the delivery of pumpkins and the availability of decorations such as lights, smoke machines, and scary blow-up monsters. Volunteers are ready to assist with setup, ensuring everyone is prepared for the festive night. The mandatory requirement for all residents to hand out treats from 4 to 7 p.m. is emphasized, with warnings of potential tricks for those who fail to comply. The Labyrinth at Caladrius Park is scheduled to open from 8 to 10 p.m., with a special note that this year’s event is particularly serious. The Beltane King, Keith Parson, promises to deliver a terrifying experience, daring residents to enter the labyrinth if they dare. This announcement sets the stage for a night filled with fear and community bonding, hinting at the deeper significance of these traditions in the town’s culture.

Excitement and anticipation build in Plymouth Valley as Samhain approaches. The radio show NewsHour delves into the Beltane King’s reputation for instilling fear, and Linda hears from Rachel about a past incident where an old man had a heart attack but survived. On the morning of Samhain, the town is adorned with lights and Halloween decorations, and the Farmer-Bowens’ house is no exception. Linda dresses as a sexy black cat, while Hip and Josie prepare their costumes: Hip represents a diminishing plastic island, and Josie wears her soccer uniform inside out as a serial killer. Later, Linda, Russell, and the children attend the Samhain festival at Caladrius Park. Linda, Daniella, and Rachel venture into the haunted Labyrinth, where Linda faces intense fear and confronts Keith Parson, the Beltane King. Despite her terror, Linda manages to escape and reunites with her friends, who are impressed by her bravery.

As the festive decorations of Samhain give way to the austere beauty of corn husks and autumnal offerings, Plymouth Valley transitions into a colder season. The Beautification Society ensures the town remains visually appealing, while the Farmer-Bowens adapt to their new roles. Hip takes charge of stocking the altar, and the dayworkers manage the fall foliage, maintaining the town's charm despite the encroaching chill. A light frost settles in, and winter coats begin to appear, signaling the change in weather.

Russell's delayed court case finally arrives, and he successfully defends Omnium, securing a significant victory. This win solidifies their standing in the town, but Russell knows the scrutiny will persist. Meanwhile, Josie's soccer skills improve, and she is moved to a more suitable position, though she remains discontented. Hip becomes more involved with Cathy, advocating for golden tickets for all PV-born residents, demonstrating a mature and thoughtful approach to community issues.

Linda, still concerned about Gal Parker's children, delves deeper into research on idiopathic leukemia. She finds conflicting information and reaches out to Dr. Mitch Chernin and her former boss, Dr. Fielding, for insights. Fielding's response reveals a potential link between Omnium and blood diseases, raising serious concerns about the town's environmental safety. Linda is deeply affected by Fielding's declining health and the implications of her findings.

The chapter concludes with a community talk hosted by the Plymouth Valley Chamber of Commerce, where updates on recent events and town procedures are discussed. Linda and Russell attend, learning about the increased security measures and the town's recent births. Linda continues her research, grappling with the ethical and emotional implications of her discoveries.

The historical and cultural roots of the Hollow movement in Plymouth Valley are explored in Chapter 21, 'Hollow.' Drawing parallels with the decline of ancient civilizations like the Mayans and the Incas, the chapter examines how societies in crisis often turn to pseudoscientific and religious ideologies. In Plymouth Valley, the Hollow movement began as ideological clubs that fostered community bonding and civic pride, often serving as a tax dodge. Over time, these clubs incorporated more religious elements, becoming integral to the town's identity. A scholarly perspective is provided through references to 'The Fall of the Anthropocene' by Jin Hyun, published in 2093, which underscores the movement's role in shaping the town's culture and its significance in understanding broader societal changes.

On the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, Cyrus Galani, a young PV police officer, visits Linda regarding Josie's vandalism of a stop sign. Surprised and defensive, Linda listens as Cyrus explains that Josie must perform community service on Thanksgiving. Later, Linda confides in Daniella about her concerns for Josie, who is struggling with academic pressure and social dynamics in Plymouth Valley. Daniella shares her own struggles with her stepchildren and the town's competitive nature, offering Linda some perspective and advice.

The next day, Linda and Russell attend the department party, where the atmosphere is tense and the decorations include a disturbing altar with rotting eggs. Linda encounters Tania Janssen, who reveals troubling information about the Parker family and the town's rituals. On Thanksgiving morning, Linda drives Josie to the police department for her community service, her heart heavy with worry and a deep connection to her daughter. During the Thanksgiving race, Linda falls behind and experiences a moment of profound isolation, feeling the town's pressure and cruelty acutely. The race concludes with a disturbing ritual where an old man sacrifices a caladrius, leaving Linda deeply troubled and alone at the community dinner.

Still reeling from the emotional turmoil of Thanksgiving, Linda finds herself reflecting on the town's history and the Parson family's profound influence. Chapter 23, titled 'John Parson’s Journey!', presents a song-like narrative about John Parson, the patriarch of the influential Parson family in Plymouth Valley. Sung to the tune of 'The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down,' the song celebrates John Parson's contributions to the town, including building a tunnel and a manse, and his eventual integration into the community. The lyrics emphasize the significance of John Parson's actions and his role in shaping the town's infrastructure and culture.

The chapter serves as a poetic interlude, offering a glimpse into the town's history and the revered status of the Parson family. It highlights the town's reverence for its founders and the lasting impact of their contributions. The song adds a layer of folklore to the town's identity, reinforcing the idea that Plymouth Valley is built on a foundation of tradition and legacy.

This chapter, while brief, underscores the deep-rooted respect and admiration the town has for the Parson family, setting the stage for further exploration of their influence and the town's complex social dynamics.

Linda struggles with the overwhelming emotional burden of living in Plymouth Valley, feeling a deep sense of unease and a growing suspicion about the town's true nature. Following the Thanksgiving race and the disturbing caladrius sacrifice, her mental state deteriorates, and she collapses into bed, feeling the weight of the town's expectations and the hidden horrors beneath its facade. She realizes that to survive in Plymouth Valley, she must play the game, but the monster beneath the surface continues to gnaw at her.

The next morning, Linda goes to work at the clinic, where she learns that Gal Parker has been released from the hospital and returned to her home. Despite the town's apparent indifference to Gal's plight, Linda feels a strong urge to investigate further. At the clinic, she notices that the caladrius shelter has been damaged, suggesting a violent act. The following Saturday, a shipment of caladrius feathers and leather arrives at her doorstep, and she cleans Sunny's shelter, finding a mound of tiny bones and experiencing a confrontation with the bird.

Her children, Hip and Josie, continue to navigate their own challenges. Hip, now deeply involved with Cathy Bennett, focuses on their campaign for golden tickets for all born citizens. Josie, however, appears increasingly meek and withdrawn, though she still goes out to meet her friends. Linda attends another dinner at Sirin’s, where the superficial camaraderie of the town's elite feels increasingly hollow and performative. The tension between the residents, particularly Jack and Colette, is palpable, and Linda drinks more than usual, feeling an internal itch that she desperately wants to scratch.

Russell shares his findings on idiopathic leukemia, confirming Linda's suspicions about the town's health risks. The flu season begins, and Linda's workload increases, but she finds solace in the news from the outside world, particularly the efforts of international scientists to combat the Great Unwinding. As December progresses, Linda reflects on her past, including her experiences with Glamp and her relationship with Russell. She drives to Gal's house, noticing the black ribbon wrapped around the ash tree, and returns home to learn that Dr. Carole Fielding has died. Overwhelmed with grief and the need to act, Linda walks through the snow, creating a giant spiral of footprints, a symbolic act of defiance against the town's oppressive atmosphere.

Still reeling from the town's unsettling practices and the discovery of the damaged caladrius shelter, Linda visits the PV library to delve deeper into the town's history. Her search focuses on the blight that affected Plymouth Valley in its early years, and she uncovers limited information about the Winter Festival's sacrifice to the Great White Caladrius. The librarian's evasive and dismissive attitude fuels Linda's growing unease. Back home, Linda finds Russell in his office, stressed about an upcoming court case. When she tries to discuss the blight and the town's health issues, Russell becomes defensive and dismissive, leaving Linda feeling even more isolated. Later, she visits Gal Parker, who reveals disturbing details about the town's practices and the fate of her children.

Still reeling from the town's unsettling practices and the tragic events surrounding Gal Parker, Linda delves deeper into Plymouth Valley's history and the health issues affecting the residents. She calls Trish Parker again, only to find the number disconnected, and scrolls through old messages from ActHollow, feeling increasingly isolated and desperate. Linda revisits the PV library, but finds no new information, and returns home to drown her sorrows in mead, neglecting her family and responsibilities.

The next morning, Linda forces herself to go to work. There, she meets Danny Morales and his critically ill son, Carlos, and promises to help Danny find better treatment options despite the town's lack of resources and her own suspicions about the town's health risks. She also confronts Matt, her assistant, who has been snooping through patient records on behalf of ActHollow, and demands he stop. Linda’s concerns about the town's practices and the health of its residents deepen, and she considers the possibility of a cover-up involving the town's leadership.

At home, Linda confronts Hip about Josie's behavior and the strained relationship between the twins. Hip reveals that Josie feels isolated and unsupported, and Linda realizes that the town has taken a toll on her family. Later, the family prepares to attend a New Year's Eve party at Anouk’s dad’s mansion, but Josie claims to be sick. Sensing that Josie is malingering, Linda tries to talk to her, but the conversation escalates into a heated argument, exposing the deep-seated issues within the family. Despite the tension, Linda decides to go to the party, hoping to gather more information about the town’s inner workings.

At the party, Linda observes the stark class divisions and the decadent behavior of the town’s elite, including the serving of alcohol to underage guests. She overhears a conversation about Josie, revealing the cruel judgments and gossip circulating about her daughter. Feeling overwhelmed, Linda seeks solace with Rachel, who is smoking and drinking heavily. Rachel confides in Linda about her own struggles and the corrupt practices she has been involved in, hinting at the deeper darkness within the town. As the New Year begins, Linda witnesses the town’s leaders engaging in overtly sexual and exploitative behavior, solidifying her resolve to uncover the truth and protect her family.

Still reeling from the unsettling practices and tragic events surrounding Gal Parker, Linda delves deeper into the cultural and religious significance of avian symbolism in Plymouth Valley. Drawing on a quote from Zora Neale Hurston's 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' the chapter begins with a preface to Anouk Parson’s third collection of poetry, self-published in 2053. The preface emphasizes the cruel nature of gods and the role of fear in worship, suggesting that true gods demand blood, while half-gods are satisfied with less visceral offerings.

The chapter then explores the town's reverence for the caladrius, a bird deeply intertwined with the town's rituals and beliefs. The caladrius is seen as a purifying force, capable of consuming illness and purging the land of impurities. This belief is reflected in the town's practices, such as the sacrifices and offerings made during the Winter Festival. The chapter underscores the town's blend of ancient and modern elements, highlighting how the caladrius serves as a symbol of both continuity and renewal.

Through the lens of Anouk Parson’s poetry, the chapter also touches on the psychological and emotional impact of these rituals on the town's residents. The idea that suffering and fear are essential components of worship is echoed in the town's strict adherence to its traditions, suggesting a deeper, more sinister purpose behind the seemingly utopian facade. This exploration of the town's religious and cultural practices provides a new layer of understanding for Linda and the reader, hinting at the darker truths that lie beneath the surface of Plymouth Valley.

The historical and cultural significance of human sacrifice in times of scarcity is explored in 'It’s Exactly What You Fear (The Plymouth Valley Winter Festival).' An AI-generated library research excerpt draws parallels between gladiatorial games, Mayan skull-cracking rituals, and the skin furniture and blood sacrifices in Plymouth Valley, highlighting how these practices build community consensus and reinforce group bonds through shared acts of violence and ritual.

Blutkitt, a concept introduced by Trebor Meier in 'Corporate Cults from Seoul to Plymouth Valley,' is discussed next. Blutkitt refers to the tendency for morally corrupt actions to strengthen group attachments, rather than cause individuals to leave. When groups commit murder together, members feel they have crossed a point of no return, bonding them more closely and making outsiders seem less real. This process involves grooming members, giving them incremental responsibilities, and gradually pushing them to commit acts that solidify their loyalty.

The chapter concludes by emphasizing the cyclical nature of this process, where those who have committed violent acts are given greater honors and leadership roles, as they are seen as irrevocably part of the group. In Plymouth Valley, the Winter Festival and other rituals serve to bind the community through shared acts of sacrifice and violence.

Driven by her concern for the Parker children, Linda becomes increasingly frantic at the New Year's Eve party at Anouk’s dad’s mansion. She pushes through the crowd, ignoring the festive atmosphere, and follows Zach Greene, who she believes has taken the children to a hidden part of the mansion. Despite Russell’s attempts to calm her down, Linda’s determination leads to a scene, and the partygoers watch in stunned silence as she shouts for the children. Russell, embarrassed and angry, insists they leave, and the family exits the party, with Hip blaming Linda for ruining the event.

The next morning, Linda, still feeling the lingering effects of the psilocybin-laced wine, goes to Gal Parker’s house. She finds the place nearly empty, with Gal preparing to leave for a halfway house. Gal confirms that the goat at the party was a prop and that the children are not in Palo Alto. Linda shares her experience of seeing the children at the party, holding hands, and being taken inside by Zach. Gal, visibly moved, begs Linda to help find the children, who she believes are still in Plymouth Valley. Sally Claus and Cyrus Galani arrive to escort Gal away, and Linda is left with a sense of urgency and confusion.

Determined to uncover the truth, Linda visits Dr. Mitch Chernin at his home. Chernin, looking frail and disheveled, initially dismisses her concerns, attributing her behavior to the effects of the wine. However, Linda presses him about the Parker children’s diagnosis of idiopathic leukemia and the treatment they received. Chernin’s reaction is evasive, and he warns Linda to stay out of it, suggesting that he is trying to fix something from the inside. Frustrated and confused, Linda returns home, where the family remains tense and withdrawn, with Russell urging her to apologize to the board and Hip questioning her judgment.

Still reeling from the events at the New Year's Eve party and the discovery of the toxic waste site, Linda and Josie share a heart-to-heart conversation in the car on the way to the dump. Josie opens up about her feelings of isolation and fear in Plymouth Valley, while Linda confides in her daughter about her own struggles and the pressure to fit in. This moment of vulnerability brings them closer, and Josie’s mood lifts as they joke and bond over the search for the lost snow globe.

At the dump, they uncover a toxic waste site filled with Omnium and other hazardous materials, raising serious concerns about the town’s environmental practices. Linda realizes the severity of the contamination and the potential health risks, especially for the children. Despite Josie’s determination to find the snow globe, Linda insists they leave, prioritizing their safety.

Back at the clinic, they clean up, and the conversation continues. Linda and Josie discuss the town’s strange customs and the pressure to conform. Josie reveals the harsh social dynamics at school, where she feels constantly scrutinized and bullied. She expresses her fear of being left behind in Plymouth Valley, as the town’s system seems designed to break up families. Linda admits that she is looking for evidence of wrongdoing in the town, particularly regarding the missing Parker children and the Winter Festival. Feeling more connected to her mother, Josie offers to help with the investigation.

Driven by her concerns about the Parker children, Linda takes drastic measures to uncover the truth. She breaks into Russell's office, accesses his laptop, and discovers damning evidence linking Omnium to increased cancer rates and other health issues. Confronting Russell, she learns that he admits to the data manipulation but insists it's only temporary, claiming the company will go clean once the patent expires.

On Friday, Linda and Josie sneak into the PV Hospital and rescue the Parker children, Sebbie and Katie, from the basement. They successfully smuggle the children out of the town and deliver them to Gal at the halfway house. Despite the successful rescue, Linda and Josie return home to find that Russell has made a deal with the board to stay and maintain their appearance of normalcy until the end of the year.

Hip, torn between loyalty and fear, refuses to leave with Linda and Josie, opting to stay with Cathy at the Bennett house. At the border, Sally, Cyrus, and Pratt block their exit, preventing Linda and Josie from leaving the town. Linda is forced to confront the reality that her actions have put her family in a precarious position, and she must decide whether to stay and play along or risk everything to expose the truth.

Unable to flee Plymouth Valley, the Farmer-Bowens are forced to attend the Winter Festival. The night before, Linda and Russell share a deep conversation. Russell acknowledges his past dismissiveness and the town's potential for violence and corruption. The next morning, they are escorted to the festival, where the exits are sealed, and they must participate in the rituals.

During the festival, Linda and her family navigate the bizarre and oppressive atmosphere. Hip and Cathy's relationship is strained, and Hip reveals that he stayed for Linda's health. The festival includes a mandatory three-day stay, with the final day reserved for those with golden tickets and their children.

Jack Lust, now the chairman, addresses the remaining attendees, revealing the town's culling process and the ritual of human sacrifice. The slowest runner from the Thanksgiving race is chosen as the sacrifice, and this year, the slowest runner is revealed to be someone who never completed the race, setting the stage for a new victim.

The Farmer-Bowens are forced to participate in the Winter Festival, where they face the hostile residents of Plymouth Valley. Jack, now the chairman, announces that Linda and her children must escape the Labyrinth before being caught by the Beltane King, Keith Parson. The family is brutally attacked by the townspeople, and Russell is killed by Keith, leaving Linda, Hip, and Josie to flee for their lives.

Inside the Labyrinth, the family encounters the town’s horrifying practices, including human skin chairs and the caladrius, which feast on the remains of the sacrificed. Linda and the twins manage to incapacitate Keith, and Percy Khoury appears, confirming the caladrius’s role in the town’s rituals. Bloodied and traumatized, the family makes their way out of the Labyrinth and the reactor, eventually reaching their car and driving to the town’s border.

At the border, Sally and Heinrich attempt to persuade the family to stay, but they refuse and begin their journey to the halfway house. Linda reflects on their future, planning to return to New York and rebuild their lives, despite the trauma and loss they have endured. She acknowledges the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of moving forward, even in a world that is falling apart.

Still reeling from the harrowing escape from the Labyrinth, the chapter shifts to a broader historical perspective, delving into the origins of Plymouth Valley's disaster as detailed in Jin Hyun's academic work, 'The Fall of the Anthropocene.' On the last day of the annual Winter Festival, a disgruntled employee triggered a nuclear meltdown in the survivor tunnels, which were meant to protect against radiation. The Great Lakes Disaster Relief Consortium evacuated the residents of Plymouth Valley Extension, but the core residents of Plymouth Valley, refusing to believe their Geiger counters, gathered in the very tunnels that were poisoning them, leading to their swift demise.

The caladrius, less sensitive to ionizing radiation, shifted their diet to meat, feasting on the human remains. The Chinese-American Scientific Consortium deployed a nuclear-absorption device to the disaster site, testing it live for the first time. The successful remediation of Plymouth Valley became a landmark event, restoring faith in science and ushering in the era of the Global Ecosystem. This era saw significant advancements in solar energy, agriculture, and air quality, leading to the widespread adoption of BetterWorld’s dome policy in cities worldwide.

The chapter also touches on the social and political upheavals that followed, with popular uprisings forcing change in major cities around the world. The walls of corporate and political control were torn down, and the first public Bell Jar was established in New York. Rumors persist that some Plymouth Valley residents still live in the tunnels, unable to care for themselves without dayworkers, akin to Morlocks. The chapter concludes by noting that the disaster led to the merging of Halloween and the Day of the Dead, with revelers dressing as PV Morlocks, though this is acknowledged as a myth.