Chapter 40 (If a person is properly instructed)

At Manford Torondo’s cottage on Lampadas, Anari Idaho finds him shaken after privately reading Erasmus’s lab journals. She challenges his fixation and presents evidence that EsconTran foldspace losses are far higher than claimed, warning it is too dangerous for Manford to travel. Housekeeper Ellonda tends them while Anari maintains strict security over Manford’s food and drink.

At dawn, Sister Woodra, sent by Reverend Mother Dorotea, arrives with Deacon Harian and offers her services as a Truthsayer. She affirms Manford’s sincerity and the need to expose hidden Machine Apologists. Manford reflects on Rayna Butler’s teachings, his devotion, and the bombing that killed her and maimed him, renewing his vow to safeguard humanity from technological temptation.

The group proceeds to Butlerian headquarters, where Rolli Escon brings urgent news: Baridge has voted to abandon the Butlerian pledge and accept VenHold supplies. Outraged, Manford declares he must personally enforce discipline, even hinting at a purge akin to Dove’s Haven.

Anari counters that EsconTran travel is too risky and insists on going to Baridge herself, protecting Manford as the indispensable leader. She demands Escon accompany her to prove his ships’ safety. Woodra notes Escon is not outright lying but doubts his own assurances. Manford, constrained by Anari’s logic and the movement’s needs, allows her to take the mission.