Chapter Thirty-Five: Anna

Anna waits in Bull’s office amid the Behemoth’s growing refugee camp, watching Monica Stuart interview a brightly pink-skinned Earther artist about how the Ring has changed humanity. Reflecting on the mixed crews cooperating aboard the Behemoth, Anna forms a sermon about unity—no “mixed” groups before God, only one people joined by love.

Bull arrives, preoccupied with security, ordering Serge to confiscate recon armor from marines to prevent a power imbalance. Anna asks about Clarissa Mao’s fate, pleading that Bull keep Clarissa alive long enough for a trial and to prevent a lynching if Holden reveals the truth about the Seung Un.

Over bitter coffee, Bull explains the practical reality: if the UN offers enough to secure everyone’s safety, he’ll hand Clarissa to them for an internal tribunal, likely ending in execution via recycler. Anna challenges him on forgiveness and redemption; Bull rejects the idea of limitless absolution, insisting some crimes pass a point of no return.

Bull adds that Mars has already surrendered after a face-saving arrangement, easing one crisis but creating another with armed escorts and security concerns. He confirms Holden is already on a shuttle with recon marines, and promises not to raise Clarissa’s case unless necessary. Anna resolves to appeal directly to Holden when he arrives.