underground-resistance

The chapter details a harrowing rescue mission during a katabatic hurricane on Mars, where Nirgal and his companions successfully retrieve the tortured Sax Russell. Despite the success, the group faces internal tensions, particularly with Maya's admission of killing a collaborator, and they must plan a cautious escape to the southern polar region while tending to Sax's critical condition in a Bogdanovist medical clinic.

Nirgal revisits Gamete with Art, introducing him to the unique environment and inhabitants, including Nadia and Sax, who is recovering from aphasia. The chapter explores the tension between the underground communities and surface authorities, with discussions about organizing resistance and the challenges of secrecy. The journey north with Nadia reveals the harsh and beautiful Martian landscape, emphasizing the contrast between exposure and concealment.