downers

In this chapter, Damon and Josh navigate the chaos of a violent military crackdown on Pell station's docks, seeking shelter and sustenance while avoiding detection. They encounter Downers, the station's native inhabitants, who offer subtle aid and reassurance about the safety of Damon's loved ones. Ultimately, Damon and Josh find a temporary hiding place and contemplate escape options, aware that nowhere on the station is truly safe.

In this chapter, Damon Konstantin returns to Pell Station amidst chaos and conflict between Union forces and local inhabitants known as Downers. He navigates tense interactions with Union military officers, attempts to restore order to the station's systems using a tape sent by Mallory, and faces the arrival of a large, armed merchanter fleet claiming Pell as neutral territory. The chapter highlights the precarious political and military situation on Pell, the fragile alliance between humans and Downers, and the looming threat of further conflict.