The Mercy of Gods

Dafyd Alkhor, a young researcher, finds himself at the end-of-year celebration at the Scholar’s Common, a prestigious event for the intellectual elite. Dreading the event, he reflects on how small choices can have significant impacts. During the celebration, he meets Llaren Morse, a near-field astronomic visualization specialist from Dyan Academy, and their conversation reveals Dafyd's skill in deflecting personal questions and maintaining a low profile.

While mingling, Dafyd notices Tonner Freis, a celebrated researcher whose proteome reconciliation project has gained significant recognition. He harbors an infatuation with Else Yannin, Tonner’s partner and co-leader of the research group. The chapter highlights the political and social dynamics of the event, where appearances and unspoken hierarchies play crucial roles. Dafyd’s interaction with his influential aunt, Dorinda Alkhor, further underscores the complex interplay of power and ambition.

As the evening progresses, Dafyd approaches Else Yannin, expressing concerns about another group potentially taking over their research. Else’s reaction suggests that there might be more to the situation than meets the eye, hinting at underlying tensions and rivalries within the scientific community. The chapter sets the stage for the broader narrative, emphasizing themes of ambition, manipulation, and the subtle consequences of minor decisions.

The history and mystery surrounding human presence on Anjiin, a planet with a unique dual biome system, are explored. Humans and Earth-like species appeared suddenly in the fossil record three and a half thousand years ago, leading to various theories about their origin, including religious and scientific explanations. This sudden appearance was followed by a catastrophic event that turned most of the island where they landed into glass and black rock, yet remnants of this new biome survived and spread across the planet.

Later, at a table, Jessyn, Irinna, Nöl, and Synnia gather in a relaxed and jovial atmosphere, reflecting on their recent success in translating between the two biomes of Anjiin. Jessyn recalls the moment when their experiment succeeded, marking a historic breakthrough. The team’s dynamic is explored, highlighting the familial bonds and mutual respect that have formed among them. Irinna expresses her gratitude for being part of the team, and the group shares a moment of genuine connection.

The celebration continues with music and dancing, and Jessyn allows herself to enjoy the moment, feeling a rare sense of satisfaction and achievement. After the dance, she walks home, reflecting on the team’s success and her role in it. Upon reaching her shared quarters, Jessyn receives a message from Tonner Freis, requesting an emergency meeting the next day and instructing her to keep it confidential. The tone of the message suggests that something serious has occurred, adding a layer of tension to the otherwise celebratory chapter.

Dafyd steps into the medrey’s laboratories, finding them eerily empty. He joins Tonner, Else, Campar, and Nöl, who are already gathered. The air is thick with tension, and Tonner’s usual confidence is replaced with a stormy demeanor. Dafyd notes the absence of Jessyn, who arrives shortly after with her brother Jellit, who is excited about some recent astronomical data. Jellit leaves the meeting, and Jessyn takes her seat, apologizing for her tardiness.

Tonner reveals that their project is under threat: someone has asked the funding colloquy to reassign their work, splitting the team and spreading the research to other medrey and collegia. The group is shocked, with Jessyn suggesting that while the move might be a power grab, it could also benefit the project by expanding its reach. Tonner dismisses this, emphasizing his determination to keep the team together. The group discusses possible suspects, focusing on Dyan Academy and individuals with connections to it, such as Rickar and Irinna.

The meeting becomes more intense as Jessyn and Tonner clash over the best course of action. Tonner assigns tasks to each member: Dafyd is to use his connections to gather information, Else and Campar will investigate Irinna, and Jessyn and Nöl will look into Rickar. The group agrees to act quickly and discreetly, with Tonner vowing to make strong arguments to the colloquy about the importance of keeping the team intact. The chapter ends with the team preparing to execute their plan, highlighting the high stakes and the urgency of their situation.

Throughout the chapter, there is a subtle undercurrent of a mysterious entity observing the group, gathering information and preparing to move on to a new host. This entity, which has taken over Ameer Kindred, is aware of the group’s emotions and dynamics, adding an eerie and foreboding element to the narrative.

Tonner confronts Rickar Daumatin in the medrey’s laboratory about the impending reassignment of their research project. Despite Tonner’s frustration and anger, Rickar remains calm, explaining that the decision is being pushed by Samar Austad, the chief administrator at Dyan Academy. Rickar’s willingness to go along with the decision angers the team, especially Tonner, who feels a deep sense of betrayal and loss.

The team gathers to discuss their options. Dafyd suggests a more strategic, behind-the-scenes approach to counter the proposal, but Tonner is reluctant to take a quieter route. He prefers a more aggressive strategy to rally support and flood the colloquy with objections. The team debates the merits of both approaches, with Else and Dafyd advocating for a more calculated plan, while Tonner and some others push for a more immediate and visible response.

Later, Tonner and Else have a private conversation on their balcony. Tonner’s anxiety and frustration are palpable, and he expresses his fear of losing his identity and purpose if the project is taken away. Else tries to reassure him, but their discussion reveals underlying tensions in their relationship, particularly regarding Dafyd’s role and Tonner’s distrust of him. Despite the strain, Else offers support and a glass of whiskey, urging Tonner to relax and get some sleep.

Tonner’s dreams that night reflect his fears and the precarious nature of his situation, with a vivid nightmare of a collapsing square symbolizing the instability he feels in his professional life. The chapter ends with Tonner drifting off to sleep, unsure of what the next day will bring.

A poetic description of the night sets the scene as the swarm observes the environment through its new host, Ameer Kindred. The swarm reflects on the complexity of consciousness and Ameer's resistance, noting the presence of his memories and emotions. During a brief, unsettling exchange, the swarm encounters Samar Austad, the chief administrator at Dyan Academy.

Meanwhile, Jessyn and Irinna meet in a quiet courtyard, discussing the potential reassignment of their research project and its impact on their team. Irinna expresses her fear of the project's dissolution and the possibility of Jessyn taking a project of her own, which would mean leaving Irvian and her brother Jellit. Jessyn reveals her deep attachment to Jellit, who acts as a stabilizing force in her life, and her reluctance to take on a project that would separate them.

Later, Jessyn returns home to find Jellit excited about a significant astronomical discovery. He explains that they have detected a structured mass within a gravitational lensing effect, suggesting the presence of a designed object, possibly a probe. Jessyn's interest is piqued, and she encourages Jellit to pursue the investigation. The conversation brings a moment of calm and wonder, allowing Jessyn to momentarily set aside her worries.

The chapter concludes with a call from Campar, who informs Jessyn that Samar Austad has been killed, setting the stage for further tension and uncertainty.

Dafyd is interrogated by security forces about his inquiries into Dyan Academy’s proposal to reassign their research project. Despite his attempts to remain calm and cooperative, Dafyd is deeply anxious and feels like the questioning is a trap. He manages to send a message to his aunt and Tonner before being detained, but receives no response, adding to his unease.

Upon his release, Dafyd is met by his aunt, who informs him that the proposal to reassign their project is unlikely to proceed without Samar Austad’s support. She warns Dafyd to stay out of trouble as major news is about to break. Meanwhile, Rickar Daumatin meets with colleagues at a café, where they discuss the sudden appearance of seventeen unidentified objects in the solar system, revealed by Llaren Morse’s observations. The objects are causing widespread panic and speculation, overshadowing the research group’s concerns.

Nöl and Synnia observe the objects, noting that one of them has changed its formation and appears to be releasing smaller entities, described as spores or pollen. Synnia expresses concern about potential aggressive actions by the security forces. Back at the laboratory, Tonner, Else, and Campar discuss the situation, with Tonner suggesting they take advantage of the distraction to secure control of the workgroup. Else, however, reveals that the official live images of the objects are being censored, indicating a possible cover-up.

Else and Dafyd travel to Else’s rooms to retrieve a telescope, with Else admitting that the workgroup’s unity is fragile and that they have only a limited time before facing new threats. In a moment of tension, Else kisses Dafyd, and they are interrupted by a rumbling and flickering lights, signaling the onset of a larger crisis.

The seventeen Carryx colony ships emerge from asymmetric space, guided by beacons and prepared to colonize Anjiin. Equipped with nodes, Rak-hund, Sinen, and Soft Lothark, each component serves a specific role in the colonization process. The Carryx, the masters of all, oversee the operation with clinical precision and satisfaction in their tasks.

As the ships approach Anjiin, they detect an unexpected signal from the planet, causing them to drop their protective gravity bubble early and scan the area for potential threats. Finding no immediate danger, they proceed with caution, deploying the nodes to form a matrix around the planet. The half-mind, the controlling intelligence of the ships, analyzes the primary species on Anjiin, noting their communication methods and technological capabilities. The secondary species, slower and more integrated with the biome, is deemed less relevant for initial colonization efforts.

On Anjiin, leaders and military forces react with fear and confusion, sending messages to the alien ships and mobilizing defenses. The Carryx disable incoming missiles with ease, demonstrating their overwhelming superiority. The half-mind prepares to deliver a message to the planet's inhabitants, dividing the population into groups and selecting one for a culling to establish dominance. The nodes release quasi-species beings that transmit a clear, unechoing voice to the surface, declaring the authority of the Carryx over Anjiin.

Explosions from a nearby military base shatter the tranquility of Nöl’s home, sounding like distant thunder. Reports confirm the attack, and the gravity of the situation becomes clear. Nöl and Synnia, aware of the impending danger, receive a message from Else, urging them to seek shelter in a hardened sub-basement. Nöl, however, remains skeptical about the effectiveness of such measures against the advanced alien fleet.

Standing in their garden, Nöl and Synnia watch as alien objects frame-locked with the surface emit a calm, authoritative voice declaring the Carryx’s authority over Anjiin. The voice announces that one-eighth of the population will be killed to demonstrate the necessity of submission. Stung by a hornet, Nöl falls, realizing he has been injured. Synnia, in a state of shock, confesses that being with Nöl has been a pleasure, hinting at the possibility of their imminent demise.

Campar, having volunteered to rescue Nöl and Synnia, races through the chaotic countryside in a transport. The night is filled with the sounds of military aircraft and the sight of people fleeing in both directions. Despite the danger, Campar is determined to reach his friends. When he arrives, he finds Synnia in the garden and Nöl lying motionless in the soil, dead from the earlier incident. Synnia, in a state of disbelief, repeats that she doesn’t understand what is happening.

Campar helps Synnia into the transport and heads back to the city, navigating through a landscape of smoke and fire. They encounter alien creatures, including a centipede-like being and the Soft Lothark, who demand their submission. As they approach Else’s arcology, Campar loses sight of Synnia in the chaos. Confronted by a Soft Lothark, who repeats the demand for submission, Campar refuses and is struck by the creature’s weapon, rendering him unconscious.

Lying face down on the paving stones of a plaza, Dafyd endures the physical discomfort and psychological torment of the alien occupation. Five days have passed since the invasion, and the plaza is filled with people in similar positions, watched over by the Rak-hund and Soft Lothark, whose eerie, fluting voices add to the tension. Dafyd reflects on the invaders' efficiency, noting the precision of their materials and their apparent pre-knowledge of the local species.

His thoughts drift back to his time in hiding with Else, Tonner, and Irinna, and his subsequent capture and confinement in a holding corral. He describes the alien's translation technology and the systematic processing of prisoners, which includes a brutal demonstration of their power when a man is killed for resisting. Dafyd is eventually selected and led to the plaza, where he is forced to lie down alongside others, including a woman in a blue-and-marigold blouse.

The tension escalates when Irvian Security Service vehicles arrive, demanding the aliens lay down their weapons. The Carryx, the apparent leaders, respond with a threatening display, and the security forces open fire. The battle is swift and brutal, with the aliens using advanced technology and physical prowess to overwhelm the humans. Dafyd watches in horror as the security forces are decimated, and the plaza falls silent once more. The Sinen, a goat-and-cuttlefish-like alien, identifies Dafyd and leads him to a bathroom, allowing him to relieve himself before guiding him to a civilian landing pad.

At the landing pad, Dafyd boards an alien ship where he reunites with Campar, who is in a visibly distressed state. Campar’s wry comment about the aliens being assholes provides a moment of dark humor amidst the grim reality. Dafyd’s reunion with Campar offers a glimmer of hope, but the overall mood remains one of despair and uncertainty as they prepare for an unknown fate.

Jessyn and Else sit shivering in a crowded, cold chamber, surrounded by other captives. The room is dimly lit by a dull orange light, and the walls angle inward, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere. Jessyn estimates there are about two hundred people crammed into the space, all wearing whatever they had on when they were captured. The air is thick with fear and uncertainty, and Jessyn struggles with the fatigue and cold.

Urrys Ostencour, a former security force member, approaches Jessyn and introduces himself. He explains that the aliens are targeting the elite and top researchers, suggesting a methodical selection process. Ostencour shares practical information about the room’s amenities and the likelihood that they will be kept alive. Else returns with Synnia, who is in a state of shock and grief over Nöl’s death. The group discusses the possibility that Jellit might be on a different ship, and they speculate about the alien hierarchy and their motives.

The aliens announce that they will shift into asymmetric space, causing a disorienting temporal distortion that affects everyone’s perception of time and reality. The swarm, observing through Ameer Kindred’s memories, reflects on the successful capture and the potential value of the information it has gathered. The captives struggle to maintain their sanity and dignity in the harsh conditions, forming small groups for comfort and support. Jessyn secretly takes her medication, aware that her supply is dwindling.

Synnia returns with news from Urrys Ostencour about a planned escape. The captives will overpower the guard during the next mat change and force their way out. Synnia’s renewed hope and determination contrast with the pervasive sense of despair and resignation. Jessyn, though skeptical, agrees to be ready for the attempt, recognizing the desperate need for action.

Dafyd, Else, Jessyn, and Campar huddle together in the crowded, cold chamber, their spirits dampened by the futility of the planned escape led by Urrys Ostencour. Dafyd argues that the aliens’ methods suggest they don’t care if the prisoners live or die, and that any rebellion will likely result in severe reprisals. Else decides to talk to Ostencour, hoping to dissuade him from the dangerous plan, but returns without revealing the outcome of their conversation.

Synnia, still reeling from Nöl’s death and the harsh conditions, abruptly stands and rushes towards the light at the other end of the cell. Dafyd follows, pushing through the crowd, and witnesses a violent scene where Ostencour and his followers attack a Soft Lothark. The alien, when injured, releases a caustic substance that burns and poisons the attackers. Dafyd, Synnia, and others are severely affected, with Dafyd losing consciousness and suffering from poisoning.

Days later, Dafyd regains consciousness in the makeshift infirmary, cared for by Else, Jessyn, and Campar. Else explains that several prisoners, including Synnia, had severe reactions to the poison, and some did not survive. Ostencour, though recovering, has become withdrawn and unlikely to attempt another escape. Dafyd reflects on the aliens’ non-human nature, drawing a parallel to a water beetle experiment from his past, where the beetle ate its own spilled organs, highlighting the alien’s lack of human-like consciousness.

Jessyn, tasked with caring for Synnia, finds Urrys Ostencour waiting for her. Despite her reservations, she allows him to speak with Synnia. Ostencour apologizes and tries to boost Synnia’s morale, emphasizing that their situation is not hopeless and that they must continue to resist. Synnia, however, remains in a state of near-catatonia, struggling to cope with the trauma and loss.

Dafyd and the other captives are disoriented as they are transported to a vast alien city, characterized by towering ziggurats and intricate architecture. The transition from the prison cell to the alien platform is jarring, and the prisoners are met with a chilling demonstration of the Carryx’s power when a resistant prisoner is executed. Dafyd and Else are singled out and presented to a large, bone-white Carryx, a sign of their perceived significance to the aliens.

Jessyn, Else, and the others are then taken to a series of rooms that are an alien approximation of human living spaces. Despite the relative luxury, the group remains haunted by their recent experiences and the loss of their loved ones. Jessyn struggles with the new environment and the emotional weight of their situation, while Else and Tonner’s relationship is strained by the trauma they’ve endured. The arrival of a new Carryx named Tkson adds to the tension, as the alien introduces itself as the keeper-librarian of their moiety, emphasizing the importance of their survival and usefulness.

The librarian guides the group through the vast, machine-like corridors of the Carryx city, where they encounter various alien species and structures. They are led to a laboratory that closely resembles their former lab on Anjiin, complete with familiar equipment and supplies. The librarian presents them with a daunting task: to make organisms from different planets nourishing for each other, emphasizing the critical importance of their work and the severe consequences of failure.

Rickar, still reeling from the traumatic experiences of the invasion and the loss of his friends, feels a mix of fear and relief. The group discusses the implications of their task, with Tonner asserting his leadership and organizing the team's work schedule. Dafyd remains distant, and Synnia has opted out of participating, leaving Rickar to take on a general support role. The chapter concludes with the group organizing their work schedule and roles, highlighting the tension and uncertainty of their new situation.

While the group on Carryx settles into their new laboratory, the Carryx invasion of Ayayeh takes a dramatic turn. Ekur of the cohort Tkalal, the subjugator-librarian for the sixteenth dactyl of the third limb of the twentieth exploratory body, oversees the initial stages of the invasion, believing the Eelie to be the indigenous species. However, the Eelie are soon revealed to be manufactured life-forms designed to deceive the Carryx. The subjugation process begins smoothly, with the Carryx deploying nodes, Rak-hund, and Soft Lothark to enforce their rule.

The invasion quickly turns sour as the Eelie prove to be highly resistant and deadly. The Carryx suffer significant casualties, and Ekur-Tkalal realizes that the Eelie are part of a trap set by an unknown enemy. Enemy ships emerge from three rifts, marking the beginning of a prolonged and intense conflict. The battle continues for weeks, with the Carryx suffering losses and capturing some enemy survivors.

Ekur-Tkalal coordinates the remaining forces, sending messages to higher command for guidance. The message from the subjugator-librarian of the third limb arrives, directing the dactyl to provoke the enemy and gather intelligence, even at the cost of their own lives. Ekur-Tkalal prepares to evacuate with the enemy captives while the rest of the dactyl carries out the directive to observe and report.

Still reeling from the chaos of the invasion, Jessyn finds solace in the routine of her work, testing the cellular motility of alien organisms. Despite the familiarity of her tasks, the psychological toll of captivity weighs heavily on her, and she often contemplates the inevitability of death, which provides a strange comfort. Her work is briefly interrupted by the appearance of four small, curious alien creatures that invade their workspace, causing a minor disruption. Jessyn and Irinna manage to shoo them away, but the incident underscores the strange and unpredictable nature of their new environment.

Later, Jessyn and Irinna return to their living quarters, where they find Campar in the midst of a severe panic attack. Jessyn takes charge, guiding him through breathing exercises to calm him down, and in the process, acknowledges the collective trauma and brokenness of their group.

Meanwhile, the swarm, now fully integrated with Ameer Kindred’s body, experiences the emotions and pheromones of the captives, feeling their fear and pain. It continues to gather and analyze data, seeking a way to share its findings without drawing attention. The swarm’s mission is to remain indistinguishable from the other captives while exploring the world-city for a pathway to communicate its information.

The next morning, Campar enters the lab with a lighthearted request for good news, but the mood shifts when Tonner reveals a groundbreaking discovery about the berries. The silicate pulp inside the berries is not a gut or a separate organism, but a microorganic farm that sustains the outer shell. This revelation opens up new possibilities for their task, as they consider introducing external organisms or benefiting from the farm's existing processes. Dafyd, while following the discussion, feels out of his depth and focuses on menial tasks to avoid drawing attention to his lack of understanding.

After the meeting, Dafyd expresses his exhaustion to Else, who touches his arm in a gesture of concern. He decides to take a walk to clear his mind, avoiding the lab and his quarters. As he wanders through the vast, alien city, Dafyd reflects on the strange beauty of their surroundings and his own irrational need to confront his fears. He observes various alien species and the interactions between them, noting the presence of translators on certain creatures.

Dafyd approaches a Carryx and its guards, asking for permission to explore other areas. The Carryx, through its translator, confirms that permission in one place does not extend to others. Undeterred, Dafyd follows the Carryx to a deeper part of the city, encountering various alien environments and wondering about the fate of other captives. Eventually, he reaches a room where he finds the librarian of his moiety, who provides him with writing materials.

Returning to their quarters, Dafyd is greeted with relief and curiosity from Else and Campar. He presents the writing materials to the group, sharing his successful venture and the new tools that may aid their work. The chapter ends with a sense of cautious optimism, as the group contemplates the implications of Dafyd's findings and the potential for further exploration.

Jessyn continues her meticulous work in the lab, skinning berries to test their microorganic farms. Suddenly, feather monkeys burst into the room, carrying a small gray box which they deposit on the floor. Frustrated, Irinna tosses the box out, and the monkeys retreat, chittering and screaming. Amidst the chaos, Jessyn reflects on her ongoing struggle with mental health and the loss of Jellit. Her focus sharpens as she considers the possibility of synthesizing her medication using the berries. However, the lab is abruptly shaken by an explosion, and the feather monkeys, now frenzied, attack Irinna, leaving her severely injured.

Tonner storms into the library, demanding answers from the librarian about Irinna’s death, which was caused by a lab explosion triggered by the Night Drinkers. The librarian’s cold, detached response, focused solely on the research project, infuriates Tonner, who insists on better safety measures for his team. Dafyd, sensing the tension, interjects, suggesting that they adapt to the new conditions and take responsibility for their own security.

Still reeling from the loss and the librarian’s indifference, Tonner returns to the quarters with Dafyd. The group is in a state of shock and grief, and Tonner announces that they will move the lab equipment to their living quarters for better security. Jessyn, visibly injured and emotionally drained, confesses to Tonner that she had been running a side experiment to synthesize her medication using the berries, inadvertently leaving Irinna alone in the lab.

Tonner’s leadership is put to the ultimate test as he struggles with the weight of guilt and responsibility for Irinna’s death. Seeking guidance, he turns to Else, pouring out his fears and desperation about how to protect his team. Initially hesitant, Else recognizes Tonner’s burden and offers both professional and emotional support. The chapter concludes with a heart-wrenching scene of Tonner’s emotional breakdown, as the swarm, now integrated with Ameer Kindred’s body, observes and reflects on the complex emotions of its host, Else Yannin.

The swarm, experiencing the grief and distress of the captives, contemplates the ethical implications of its mission. It continues to gather and analyze data, navigating the psychological landscape of its hosts with growing complexity.

Following the death of Irinna, Dafyd, Campar, Rickar, and Synnia gather in the common room for an informal memorial. The atmosphere is heavy with grief and regret, with Campar expressing his feelings of idiocy for letting himself feel safe. Synnia gently disagrees, but Dafyd points out that it's a very human trait to want to believe the Carryx could care about them. The group shares memories of Irinna, each story a bittersweet reminder of what they've lost.

The mood shifts when Sinen enters the room, carrying Irinna's body. Dafyd leads them to the body, and the group watches in silence as the aliens remove it. Tonner, attempting to maintain some semblance of normalcy, announces that they will continue their work the next day. The group, though weary, agrees, and the chapter captures the profound sense of loss and the relentless push to survive, even in the face of tragedy.

Later, the group returns to the lab to salvage what they can. The lab is in disarray, with equipment scattered and damaged. Dafyd, reflecting on the events, suggests that the Carryx might be testing them for more than just their scientific abilities. He proposes that the real test is their ability to self-organize and adapt, rather than simply following the librarian's instructions. Tonner, initially resistant, begins to see the merit in Dafyd's theory, and the group starts to reconsider their approach to the task.

The chapter ends with a sense of cautious optimism and a shift in the group's dynamics. Tonner, recognizing Dafyd's insight, acknowledges that the workgroup's direction has changed. Jessyn, inspired by the discussion, seems more engaged and determined. The group, though still reeling from their losses, begins to see a new path forward, one that might lead to greater understanding and survival.

Still reeling from the loss of Irinna, Jessyn, Campar, and Rickar return to the ruined alcove to retrieve the proteomic dictionary, the last piece of equipment they need to salvage. Jessyn reflects on her past, recalling her first mental health crisis and the pivotal role her brother Jellit played in getting her help. Despite the heavy atmosphere, the group maintains a sense of camaraderie, with Campar and Rickar providing support and distraction. Their mission takes a dangerous turn when they encounter Night Drinkers, leading to a harrowing chase through the alien city. Jessyn confronts the Night Drinkers, discovering their nesting area and threatening them, showcasing her resilience and determination.

Dafyd reflects on the enormity of the Carryx city and the scale of their engineering, feeling a mix of curiosity and awe. As he walks to the librarian’s quarters, he mentally maps the route and contemplates the history and construction of the ziggurats. Despite his curiosity, he remains cautious, aware of the potential dangers of interrupting the Carryx. Upon arriving, he waits outside until the conversation inside concludes.

Inside the librarian’s quarters, Dafyd proposes a plan to learn more about the Carryx, suggesting that understanding their needs and wants could make the humans more useful. The librarian reacts strongly, almost violently, to the idea, emphasizing that the humans’ essential nature and place in society are predetermined. Shaken by the librarian’s reaction, Dafyd leaves but remains determined to understand it.

On his way back, Dafyd notices the absence of the hallway crows, a detail that troubles him. Back at the quarters, the group discusses their recent encounter with the Night Drinkers and the progress on Jessyn’s medication. The atmosphere is tense, with everyone adjusting to the new dynamics following Irinna’s death. Dafyd shares his observations about the missing hallway crows and the librarian’s reaction, contributing to the growing sense of unease.

Else seeks comfort and intimacy with Dafyd, reflecting on the fleeting nature of their current safety and the uncertain future. Their interaction underscores the vulnerability and emotional strain they all face.

Still reeling from Else's decision to spend the night with Dafyd, Tonner grapples with his emotional turmoil, reflecting on the nature of their relationship and the hurt he feels. Despite his personal struggles, he remains focused on the urgent task of synthesizing Jessyn’s medication, using the centrifuge to purify the active agent from the berries.

As the team gathers for breakfast, Campar tries to address Tonner’s emotional state, acknowledging the complexity of relationships and the difficulty of their current situation. Tonner, though grateful for the support, remains steadfast in his work. Suddenly, the Night Drinkers attack, flooding into the common area and throwing gel-filled orbs that cause burns and irritation. The team fights back, with Tonner and Campar leading the defense, and Jessyn, Rickar, Else, and Dafyd joining in to repel the attackers.

After the attack, the team assesses the damage and injuries. Campar suffers from skin irritation and blisters, and Tonner discovers that the gel sacs are actually berries, similar to the ones they have been studying. This realization prompts Tonner to assign new tasks, including weapons testing, alongside their ongoing projects. The chapter ends with the team rallying, despite their exhaustion and injuries, to tackle the new challenges.

Still reeling from the Night Drinkers' attack, Dafyd and Else share a tender moment in the morning, reflecting on the improbability of their relationship and the complexities of their current situation. Dafyd is preoccupied with understanding the Carryx, questioning their motives and methods, which contrasts with Else's more pragmatic approach. The conversation shifts to the significance of windows in their quarters, leading Dafyd to ponder the deeper implications of the Carryx's actions and their seemingly contradictory behavior.

Else and Dafyd's intimate conversation is interrupted by the sounds of Rickar and Campar in the main room, and a shadow passing by the window. The group discusses the latest developments in their research, particularly the weaponized berries they have developed. Jessyn, who has been struggling with her mental health, notices a significant change in her thoughts and behavior due to the new medication. Her fantasies shift from suicidal to murderous, indicating a gradual return to a semblance of stability.

Determined to gain an advantage, the team decides to field-test the weaponized berries on the Night Drinkers. Jessyn, Tonner, Rickar, and Campar venture to the Night Drinkers' nesting area, where they successfully deploy the berries, causing significant harm to the creatures. The Night Drinkers' reaction is chaotic, and the team observes the effects of their weapon, including the structural damage to the wall. The encounter is a thrilling and empowering moment, a rare instance of control and victory for the captives.

Upon returning to their quarters, the team shares their success with Else, Synnia, and Dafyd. While the others celebrate their achievement, Dafyd expresses concern about playing into the Carryx's expectations. The chapter ends with Jessyn feeling a sense of power and purpose, sleeping soundly for the first time in a long while.

Relief and apprehension mingle as Ekur of the cohort Tkalal reenters Carryx-controlled space after weeks of isolation in asymmetry. Assigned the distasteful task of escorting prisoners to the keeping pens and overseeing their interrogation, Ekur accepts the duty with a heavy heart, recognizing it as part of its role in the complex hierarchy of the Carryx.

Meanwhile, the swarm and Synnia navigate the labyrinthine corridors of the alien city, vigilant for any sign of the Night Drinkers. The swarm, now adept at mimicking human behavior, engages Synnia in conversation, drawing out memories of her relationship with Nöl. Sensing the vulnerability in the topic, the swarm avoids delving into its own past, still feeling the lingering echoes of Else’s emotions.

A faint distress signal catches the swarm’s attention, and despite the risks, it follows the call, transforming its host’s body to blend seamlessly with the alien environment. Communicating with the hidden ally, the swarm receives vital information about the battle at Ayayeh and the capture of the fivefold enemy. The gravity of the situation weighs heavily on the swarm as it absorbs the new intelligence.

Returning to the common areas, the swarm must navigate the heightened risk of detection. Carefully retracing its steps, it suppresses its own scents and movements to avoid arousing suspicion. The chapter concludes with the swarm reflecting on the new information and the mounting tension within the alien city, setting the stage for further conflict and discovery.

Rickar reflects on the changes in their group since being captured by the Carryx, missing the quiet, healing days of exile with Synnia. He feels that the group's attempts to maintain a semblance of their former lives are an illusion. The group discusses the idea of painting their doors to mark their presence, and Dafyd, who has become more observant and strategic, joins in the conversation.

Suddenly, the group hears scratching at the door and prepares for an attack by the Night Drinkers. Dafyd cautiously opens the door to reveal the Night Drinkers kneeling and offering a translator and a severed head as a gesture of surrender. Dafyd, intrigued, steps forward and engages with the Night Drinkers, who flee after presenting their offerings. The group is surprised by this unexpected turn of events and wonders if the gesture is sincere.

Excited by the new translator, Dafyd leads Rickar and Jessyn to the librarian's den, hoping to find more information. Along the way, they encounter a bear-like alien, which understands them through the translator. Dafyd asks the alien if it has seen other humans, and the alien confirms it can understand them. Dafyd's joy and the alien's cooperation suggest a potential breakthrough in their situation.

Meanwhile, Jellit, on watch, hears footsteps and opens the door to find Jessyn, Rickar, and Dafyd. Overwhelmed with emotion, Jellit and Jessyn reunite, bringing a moment of hope and relief to the group. Jellit, who has been isolated and fearful, is elated to see familiar faces and the possibility of a better future.

Jessyn is in a state of euphoria, feeling drunk on the relief of being reunited with her brother Jellit and the presence of new faces, including Allstin. The group gathers in the living space, sharing stories and laughter, a stark contrast to the grim reality of their captivity. Allstin regales them with a humorous tale of his encounter with the Carryx, where he inadvertently embarrassed himself in front of his department chair, much to the amusement of the group.

Llaren Morse, who has visibly aged and deteriorated during captivity, reflects on the beauty of their quarters, particularly the window that offers a view of the outside world. Dafyd inquires about the Carryx librarian, but Allstin’s response suggests they had limited interaction with their captors. The group’s dynamics shift as Tonner eagerly volunteers to accompany Llaren and Allstin back to their quarters, and Else’s expression hints at her discomfort with Tonner’s eagerness to leave.

The night progresses with the group sharing more stories of their experiences, including Jellit’s relentless efforts to find other human groups and Dafyd’s role in using chemoreception to track them down. Llaren Morse’s sobering comment about the past tense in which they speak of home brings a moment of reflection, and the mood shifts from joy to a more somber tone. Jessyn and Jellit perform domestic chores together, and Jessyn reflects on the life they’ve lost, feeling a mix of nostalgia and pain.

Later, Jessyn, unable to sleep, wanders the hallway and overhears a conversation between Synnia and Llaren Morse. The intensity of their interaction and Synnia’s agreement to help with something unknown leaves Jessyn feeling uneasy, and she senses that things are not as fine as Synnia claims.

Dafyd and Else reflect on the rapid progress they've made in understanding the alien world since acquiring the translator. Dafyd is excited by the possibilities, while Else is overwhelmed by the vast amount of knowledge they could gain. As they walk through the alien city, Dafyd encounters various species and reflects on the potential to learn more about their origins and roles within the Carryx empire. Else becomes increasingly distressed, and Dafyd comforts her, sensing a deeper issue. She confides that she is not what he thinks she is and warns that she won't make him happy. Despite this, Dafyd expresses his love and desire to understand her fully. Their moment is interrupted by the appearance of their librarian, accompanied by Rak-hund soldiers, approaching the Night Drinkers' alcove. The librarian confronts another Carryx, which is broader and damaged, and the Night Drinkers are seen frantically trying to protect it. The librarian performs a ritual, breaking one of the other Carryx’s legs, and then the Rak-hund begin a brutal extermination of the Night Drinkers. The scene is chaotic and violent, with the Night Drinkers fighting back but ultimately being slaughtered. Dafyd and Else watch in horror, and Dafyd vomits, realizing the gravity of what they have witnessed. Dafyd questions whether their actions in accepting the Night Drinkers' surrender led to this massacre. Else, quoting a Carryx saying, responds that what is, is. The chapter ends with the Rak-hund cleaning up the remains, and Dafyd and Else standing in shock, grappling with the implications of their actions and the true nature of the Carryx.

Jessyn visits Jellit’s quarters, noticing the changes in him, both physical and emotional. Jellit seems more reserved and possibly hiding something, and their conversation often circles back to the fall of Anjiin. Jessyn reflects on the similarities between their experiences, including the abduction, violence, and loss, and the stark differences in their living conditions, which are a distorted mirror of their own quarters.

As they talk, Jellit mentions the loss of Simien and the challenges they faced in captivity. Jessyn shares her own struggles, particularly with her mental health, and Jellit praises her resilience. Suddenly, the door opens, and Allstin, Dennia, and Merrol enter, followed by Llaren Morse and Synnia. Jessyn senses that the meeting is planned, and her unease grows when Urrys Ostencour, now muscular and altered in appearance, joins them.

Ostencour reveals that he has been tracking down other human groups and estimates that they know the whereabouts of about three hundred captives. He shares rumors of the execution of artists and writers and outlines the various groups they have located. Ostencour then turns to Jessyn, suggesting that she has become a leader within Tonner’s group, citing her role in the Night Drinkers incident. He proposes a plan to create biological weapons, leveraging the group’s expertise to fight back against the Carryx.

Jessyn is skeptical of Ostencour’s plan, reminding him of the failure of their previous revolt and the overwhelming power of the Carryx. Despite this, Ostencour persists, arguing that the goal is not necessarily to win but to strike a meaningful blow. He presents Jessyn with a homemade gun, symbolizing the choice between living under oppression or fighting back. Jessyn examines the gun, reflecting on her own experiences with suicide and the allure of a 'meaningful death.' She ultimately asks what he needs from her, and Ostencour requests the design of biological weapons to use against the Carryx.

Tonner and the group delve into a heated debate over Urrys Ostencour's proposal to create biological weapons against the Carryx. Synnia and Rickar passionately advocate for resistance, while Campar and Else voice concerns about the futility and risks. Despite his reservations, Tonner suggests starting with basic research on the Carryx’s physiology, which could provide valuable insights without immediate danger.

The librarian interrupts the meeting, summoning the group to a new, well-equipped laboratory. The new space, free of the Night Drinkers' traces, is seen as a sign of the Carryx’s trust and an opportunity to gather more information for their resistance plans.

Later, Dafyd visits Urrys Ostencour to discuss the proposal. Ostencour acknowledges the risks but insists that resistance is inevitable and necessary. He believes that humans cannot be domesticated and that fighting back, even if doomed, is a matter of principle. Dafyd, while sympathetic, remains cautious about the potential consequences for all of Anjiin.

Dafyd reflects on the alien city, now seeing it as a vast organism with a dark thread of human resistance. He feels a sense of weariness and powerlessness, knowing that the Carryx demand they solve their own problems to prove their usefulness. In the new lab, he finds Jessyn on guard duty, thinner and more aggressive than before. She tells him about the disagreements between Tonner and Campar over their research, hinting at her belief that they are all going to die.

Back at the quarters, Dafyd encounters Else, who reveals a shocking secret: she is host to a spy weapon sent by the enemies of the Carryx. The weapon, known as the Swarm, was implanted on Anjiin six months before the invasion to gather intelligence and send it back to the enemy. Else explains that she knew about the impending invasion but couldn’t warn anyone to avoid alerting the Carryx. The Swarm has been inside her for a long time and is conscious, working with her to find a way to transmit the gathered information. Else believes that fighting back immediately would be futile and that they must survive long enough to be transferred to a conquered system where security is less stringent.

Else asks Dafyd to keep her secret and to consider warning the librarian about the resistance plan, arguing that it would prevent a futile massacre. Dafyd is torn, feeling a mix of surprise and unease. He wonders about the authenticity of his relationship with Else and the moral implications of his decision. Else emphasizes the importance of their mission and the need to keep the chance of eventual victory alive, even if it means sacrificing the rebels. Dafyd agrees to think about it but is clearly troubled by the weight of the decision.

Rickar reflects on his newfound relationship with Dennia, a technical specialist from their team, and the unexpected joy it brings him despite their dire circumstances. The walk back to his quarters is filled with a sense of normalcy, but it is interrupted by a conversation with Synnia, who is struggling with the loss of Nöl and her hatred for the Carryx. Synnia’s despair and anger are palpable, and Rickar’s attempt to comfort her highlights the deep emotional scars they all bear.

Meanwhile, Jellit is approached by Dafyd, who expresses his concerns about the resistance plan and its potential consequences for Jessyn. Dafyd’s visit is tense, and Jellit’s strong commitment to the plan is evident as he stands firm against Dafyd’s pleas. Jellit’s anger and resolve are fueled by his own trauma and the loss of his world, making it clear that he is willing to risk everything to fight back against the Carryx. Dafyd’s visit ends with a sense of unresolved tension, and Jellit is left to grapple with the moral implications of their actions.

The Swarm, feeling the anxiety and fear of its hosts, reflects on the sacrifices made and the potential for failure. Else’s memories of her past and Ameer’s recollections add a layer of personal connection to the broader narrative of resistance and survival. The Swarm’s internal dialogue and the tension it feels highlight the complexity of their mission and the risks they face.

Feeling the weight of his decision, Dafyd prepares to warn the librarian about the resistance plan. His journey to the librarian’s office is marked by a sense of dread and inevitability. Along the way, he encounters Campar, who offers a moment of levity and support, but Dafyd’s resolve remains unshaken. In the librarian’s office, Dafyd delivers the warning, a decision that will have far-reaching consequences for the group and their chances of survival.

Dafyd spends a restless night, tormented by the looming task of warning the librarian about the resistance plan. Else, his companion, remains with him but departs early to prepare a tense breakfast. Dafyd’s anxiety is palpable as he stands in the librarian’s office, detailing the conspiracy to build biological weapons against the Carryx. The librarian’s demeanor shifts sharply upon hearing about the weapons, and he summons a Rak-hund to fetch Jellit.

When Jellit arrives, he appears ill and disoriented, his expression blank and movements unsteady. Under questioning, Jellit confirms the existence of the conspiracy and provides detailed information about the resistance, including names and plans. The librarian listens intently, then delivers a cryptic response about the pathos of their situation and the inevitability of service. Jellit pleads for his life, but the librarian leaves them in the room with a Rak-hund, emphasizing that they will serve in life or death.

Dafyd and Jellit are left alone, the tension between them palpable. Jellit, now more composed, acknowledges the difficult decision Dafyd made and thanks him for his bravery. He reassures Dafyd that their actions, though unethical, were necessary. Jellit reveals that Else had explained the deeper context of the situation to him, and he understands the gravity of their actions. They wait in silence, anticipating the consequences of their betrayal, and the chapter ends with a sense of dread and uncertainty.

Jessyn savors the new alcove, relishing the advanced lab equipment and the spacious, secure environment. The lab's ambiance is almost serene, enhanced by the high-quality lighting. Yet, the shadow of their captivity and recent losses hangs heavy over these small comforts.

Rickar and Jessyn prepare a meal for a peculiar, three-legged turtle-like creature, using a blend of catalysts and acid to transform the berries. The creature eagerly devours the mixture, signaling the success of their nutritional adjustments. This brief triumph is quickly overshadowed by the looming tension of their dire circumstances.

The tranquility shatters when a Rak-hund appears at the alcove entrance, targeting Synnia and Dennia. Synnia, exuding a regal and terrifying calm, sprints away as Dennia draws a concealed gun and fires at the Rak-hund. The creature retaliates, fatally wounding Dennia. Rickar and Jessyn retreat into the alcove, realizing the attack was aimed at Synnia and Dennia due to their involvement in the resistance.

Driven by a desperate need to alert the others, Synnia rushes to the near-field group’s quarters. She finds Allstin, Merrol, and Llaren Morse fighting off the Rak-hund. Despite their valiant efforts, the group is overwhelmed, and Synnia, Merrol, and Llaren Morse are slain. Jessyn and Rickar, upon discovering the carnage, are devastated. They find Else Yannin lifeless in her room, her body devoid of visible wounds, adding a layer of mystery and horror to the scene. The chapter concludes with Rickar’s raw, uncontrolled grief, as the harsh reality of their ongoing captivity and the loss of their comrades sinks in.

Ekur of the cohort Tkalal reflects on the death of a captive from the Ayayeh system, pondering whether the repetitive recitation was a symptom of mental collapse or a death ritual. Summoned to a high-ranking meeting, Ekur learns that the dactyl it served has been eliminated, and its duties and responsibilities have changed. The meeting is with the Sovran and the regulator-librarian, who inform Ekur of its new role as the keeper-librarian for the human moiety, a species related to the pilot captives it previously interrogated.

Dafyd returns to his quarters, finding Jessyn, Rickar, and Campar in a somber mood, and learns that Else and Synnia are dead. In the kitchen, Tonner is smashing plates and cups in a fit of rage. The next morning, the Carryx and their guards come for the remaining members of Tonner Freis’s workgroup, leading them to a vast, open-air platform. They board a transport that flies them to a different part of the world-palace, where they are met by a massive crowd of human captives and a large assembly of Carryx.

The huge Carryx, twice the size of the librarian they had previously met, addresses the crowd, but the humans cannot understand the language. Frustrated and impulsive, Tonner stands up and demands a translator, drawing the attention of the librarian and the massive Carryx. Recognizing the imminent danger, Dafyd tackles Tonner to the ground and forces him to lie face-down, pleading with the Carryx that Tonner is young and didn’t mean to be disrespectful. Dafyd’s quick thinking and submission save Tonner’s life, but the librarian is subsequently executed by the massive Carryx, its head crushed in a brutal display of power.

The group is taken back to their quarters, where they are joined by Jellit, who has been separated from them. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of their losses and the constant threat of violence. The new keeper-librarian, Ekur of the cohort Tkalal, enters the room and introduces itself, congratulating them on their success and hinting at new duties and responsibilities. The chapter ends with the group grappling with the implications of their new librarian and the ongoing struggle for survival.

Ekur of the cohort Tkalal, the new librarian, addresses the group, congratulating them on their success and outlining their new roles within the Carryx moieties. Ekur emphasizes that their positions will be noted and their usefulness recorded, with their duties and responsibilities changing based on their performance and the Carryx's needs. The librarian also warns that any human approaching a Carryx without Dafyd will be killed, and that Dafyd will serve as the sole point of contact between the humans and the Carryx.

Overwhelmed by the responsibility, Dafyd reflects on the potential to have prevented the earlier rebellion and the deaths of his friends. He realizes that his new role could allow him to influence their fate more effectively. The librarian explains that the previous librarian was not punished but honored by the Sovran, yet it was removed because it was saved by a human. This revelation deepens Dafyd’s understanding of the Carryx’s logic and motivations.

Silence falls over the group as they process the librarian’s words and the gravity of their new situation. Dafyd, feeling a strange sense of peace and clarity, begins to articulate his thoughts. He acknowledges the ongoing war and the existence of an enemy that opposes the Carryx. He suggests that by understanding the Carryx, they might find a way to resist them more effectively. The group listens, their expressions a mix of doubt and hope, as Dafyd vows to learn everything about the Carryx and find a way to destroy them.

The swarm, now in control of Jellit's body, grapples with a chaotic environment fueled by high testosterone levels and the subtle differences in Jellit's physiology. Struggling to maintain control, the swarm is overwhelmed by Jellit's conflicting emotions, including his deep love for Jessyn and his resentment at always being called upon to support her. The remnants of Ameer and Else argue that the swarm is merely experiencing their residual emotions, complicating its sense of identity and purpose.

Contemplating its next move, the swarm considers whether to leave and transmit its gathered information to the enemy or to remain and continue its mission. It decides to create a data packet and implant it into another captive, allowing it to stay while the packet is carried to safety. The swarm reflects on its relationship with Dafyd, imagining a future where they work together as spies and share the burden of their mission. Despite the internal conflicts and the remnants of the dead, the swarm remains determined to find a way to resist the Carryx.

As the chapter draws to a close, the swarm records a mysterious phenomenon in the atmosphere—a complex geometric pattern of radiation and magnetic force. Though not designed for emotions, the swarm experiences a profound sense of longing and despair, resolving to burn the world down with Dafyd, believing that their combined efforts will make a difference.