Avasarala records an urgent encrypted message to Secretary-General Esteban Sorrento-Gillis. Avasarala argues that the protomolecule-human hybrid program is strategically useless and morally catastrophic because the protomolecule appears able to communicate with Venus, meaning any weaponized hybrids could create another existential threat. Avasarala tells Sorrento-Gillis that Mars, parts of the Belt, and legitimate Earth forces are already positioned to act, and that the United Nations must quickly isolate Errinwright’s faction.

Prax visits Avasarala and worries about the lies spread by Nicola, who was pressured into publicly accusing Prax. Avasarala tells Prax that reputation and truth rarely match, then challenges Prax to authorize a nuclear strike on Io if Prax truly believes Mei is dead. Prax cannot do it, and Avasarala admits that although she has practical reasons to preserve the lab until they reach it, her real reason is that Mei may still be alive and Avasarala refuses to kill children.

As the Rocinante continues toward Io, Avasarala waits anxiously for Earth’s response. Avasarala speaks briefly with Admiral Souther, who notes that Sorrento-Gillis is being asked to turn against Errinwright, the man Sorrento-Gillis trusts most. Avasarala says that if Sorrento-Gillis fails, Avasarala may have to persuade Souther to go rogue, though Avasarala doubts the odds.

Avasarala receives a deeply personal message from Arjun, who understands that Avasarala may not come home. Arjun tells Avasarala not to think about Arjun while doing what must be done, and promises love across any distance. Avasarala weeps, briefly overwhelmed by the confinement of the ship and the possibility of death, but Arjun’s words help Avasarala return to the political fight.

Errinwright then sends Avasarala a threatening message, accusing Avasarala of betrayal, claiming Avasarala has endangered millions, and warning that Avasarala’s life and family are at risk unless Avasarala abandons Holden and returns. Avasarala plays the message for Bobbie and Alex and recognizes it as a victory: Errinwright offers only threats and carefully avoids admitting anything, which tells Avasarala that Errinwright’s influence is weakening.

Five hours later, Sorrento-Gillis publicly announces an investigative committee into accusations that elements of the UN and military acted illegally with private contractors. The Rocinante crew watches together while Avasarala interprets the speech as proof that Sorrento-Gillis has moved against Errinwright. Avasarala concludes that Errinwright is finished, but also notes that this only solves their smallest problem, leaving Nguyen, Mao, Strickland, the hybrid soldiers, and Venus still ahead.