uncertain-authority

In this chapter, Emilio Konstantin leads a tense evacuation of Downbelow Station's main base as communication with the station and Fleet is lost and the threat of hostile takeover looms. He organizes a group to abandon the base and move into the surrounding wilderness, offering staff and residents the choice to stay or flee, while coordinating with the native Downers and their allies, the hisa, who reappear to offer support. The chapter captures the uncertainty, fear, and fragile hope amid the collapse of established order and the struggle for survival.