memory-layering

In this chapter, Yatima, a non-flesher entity, investigates a vast vis mind network to find an invariant of consciousness, while receiving alarming news from Inoshiro about an imminent gamma-ray burst threatening Earth's biosphere and fleshers. They prepare to return to the physical world, specifically Atlanta, to warn and assist fleshers facing catastrophic environmental damage caused by the burst's effects on the ozone layer and atmosphere. The chapter explores the tension between digital and physical existence, the fragility of life, and the ethical imperative to act despite past detachment.