Apert's Anticipation and Revelations

The Concent of Saunt Edhar prepares for Apert, a decennial event when the gates open, allowing interaction with the outside world. Fraa Erasmas, a young avout, experiences the excitement and chaos of this period. Visitors from the Sæcular world bring gifts, questions, and sometimes trouble. Among them is Artisan Quin and his son Barb, who show a keen interest in the concent's workings. The event is marked by a mix of celebration and tension, as the avout anticipate the changes and challenges that come with the opening of the gates.

The Starhenge's Mysterious Closure

During Apert, Erasmas notices the starhenge, a key astronomical observatory, is unexpectedly closed. This unprecedented action raises suspicions among the avout, particularly Fraa Orolo, who seems to know more than he reveals. The closure suggests a significant event or discovery that the hierarchs wish to keep hidden. Erasmas is drawn into the mystery, sensing that the closure is linked to larger, possibly cosmic, events that could affect the entire world.

Penance and the Book's Torment

Erasmas is punished with penance, confined to a cell to study the Book, a collection of nonsensical writings designed to break the spirit. As he endures this mental torment, he reflects on the recent events and the strange behavior of the hierarchs. The isolation gives him time to ponder the significance of the starhenge's closure and the presence of Inquisitors, who seem to be investigating something of great importance.

Eliger's Unexpected Choices

As Eliger, the ceremony where avout choose their orders, unfolds, unexpected decisions are made. Many fids, including Erasmas's friends, choose paths that defy expectations, influenced by the recent upheavals. The Edharians, known for their dedication to pure theorics, see a shift in their ranks as some fids opt for more politically secure orders. Erasmas, still in penance, feels the pressure of these changes and the uncertainty of his own future.

Secrets of the Starhenge Unveiled

Driven by curiosity and a sense of urgency, Erasmas sneaks into the starhenge during a Voco ceremony, when the concent is distracted. He uses Clesthyra's Eye, a fisheye lens, to capture images of the sky, hoping to uncover what the hierarchs are hiding. This daring act risks severe punishment but underscores his determination to understand the truth behind the starhenge's closure and the Inquisitors' presence.

Inquisitors and Intrigue

The arrival of Inquisitor Varax and Inquisitor Onali adds a layer of intrigue and tension. Their presence suggests a significant investigation, possibly related to the starhenge's closure. Erasmas's interactions with them are fraught with suspicion and uncertainty. The Inquisitors' true purpose remains unclear, but their actions hint at a larger, possibly existential threat that could impact the entire mathic world.

Unexpected Alliances and Hidden Agendas

As Erasmas and his companions prepare to leave the concent, they face the challenge of forming alliances with outsiders, including the enigmatic Ita, Sammann. Sammann reveals he has a copy of a crucial photomnemonic tablet, hinting at hidden agendas and the complex interplay between the avout and the Sæcular Power. The group must navigate these alliances carefully, balancing the need for secrecy with the urgency of their mission. The tension between maintaining the Discipline and adapting to the Sæcular world becomes a central theme as they embark on their journey.

Journey to Bly's Butte

The group sets out on a journey to Bly's Butte, hoping to find Orolo, who was Thrown Back. The journey is fraught with challenges, including navigating unfamiliar roads and dealing with the diverse motivations of their companions. The landscape reflects the desolation and isolation of their quest, as they traverse a barren, arid region. The journey becomes a test of their resolve and adaptability, as they confront the realities of life outside the concent and the complexities of their mission.

Revelations at the Retreat Center

The group finds temporary refuge at a Bazian Orthodox retreat center, where they encounter monks and engage in philosophical discussions. These interactions provide insights into the broader implications of their mission and the potential connections between the avout and the Sæcular world. The retreat center becomes a place of reflection and revelation, as the group grapples with the philosophical and existential questions raised by their journey and the mysterious ship they seek to understand.

The Enigma of the Cousins' Ship

The group examines the photomnemonic tablet, revealing the enigmatic design of the Cousins' Ship. The ship's icosahedral structure and the geometry proof emblazoned on its surface suggest a connection to the avout's own mathematical traditions. This discovery raises profound questions about the nature of the Cousins and their intentions. The ship's design becomes a symbol of the intersection between the avout's theoretical knowledge and the practical challenges posed by the Sæcular world.

Confronting the Unknown

As the group delves deeper into the mystery of the Cousins' Ship, they confront the possibility of an alien threat. The ship's advanced technology and potential weaponry challenge their assumptions and force them to reconsider their understanding of the universe. The group must balance their intellectual curiosity with the practical need to protect their world. This chapter highlights the tension between knowledge and power, as the avout grapple with the implications of their discoveries and the responsibilities they bear.

Arrival of the Geometers' Probe

As Erasmas and Orolo converse on the mountainside, a bright object appears in the sky, descending rapidly. It becomes clear that this is a probe from the Geometers, the alien visitors orbiting their world. The probe lands in the ancient site of Orithena, causing a stir among the avout. Orolo, driven by curiosity and urgency, leads a group to investigate the probe, hoping to learn from it before the Sæcular Power intervenes. The probe's arrival is a pivotal moment, symbolizing the intersection of ancient mysteries and modern cosmic events.

Fraa Orolo's Insights and Revelations

Orolo, once Thrown Back, now shares his insights with Erasmas, focusing on the nature of consciousness and the universe. He discusses Evenedrician datonomy, a study of the fundamental givens of thought, and suggests that consciousness might extend across multiple cosmi. This polycosmic view challenges traditional notions and suggests that the mind can perceive alternate realities. Orolo's ideas, though complex, offer a new perspective on understanding the Geometers and their intentions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things.

The Enigma of the Lineage

Erasmas discovers that Orithena is not a traditional math but a cloister of the Lineage, a group tracing its roots back to ancient times. This revelation challenges his understanding of the mathic world and its boundaries. The Lineage, dedicated to exploring the Hylaean Theoric World, operates outside the usual constraints, allowing for a freer pursuit of knowledge. This discovery raises questions about the nature of belief, tradition, and the pursuit of truth, as Erasmas grapples with the implications of this hidden order.

A Journey Through Orithena's Past

Guided by Suur Spry, Erasmas descends into the excavation site of Orithena, where the remains of an ancient temple lie buried. The site, rich with history, offers a glimpse into the past, where the Teglon, a complex tiling puzzle, was once a focus of study. As Erasmas explores, he reflects on the legacy of the ancient geometers and their quest for understanding. The ruins symbolize the enduring human desire to uncover the mysteries of the universe, connecting past and present in a continuum of discovery.

Confrontation with the Sæcular Power

The arrival of the Geometers' Probe at Orithena draws the attention of the Sæcular Power, who are likely to intervene. Orolo and the avout work quickly to learn from the probe before they are interrupted. They face the challenge of balancing their pursuit of knowledge with the impending arrival of external forces. This confrontation highlights the tension between the mathic world and the Sæcular Power, as the avout strive to protect their autonomy and continue their quest for understanding in the face of external pressures.

Evacuation and the Journey Begins

The Convox at Tredegarh is abruptly evacuated, with avout receiving rucksacks and badges for a planned dispersal. Erasmas finds himself in Cell 317, a group including Jesry, Arsibalt, and the Valers, led by Lio. They board a military aerocraft, realizing they are part of a mission to confront the Geometers' ship, the Daban Urnud. The journey is fraught with uncertainty, as they grapple with the implications of their mission and the potential dangers they face.

Secrets of the Caravansery

Cell 317 arrives at the ancient Caravansery of Elkhazg, a former math known for its geometric tiling problems. The place is steeped in history, having once been a hub for trade and knowledge exchange. The avout are struck by the beauty and complexity of the tiling patterns, which serve as both art and profound theorical statements. The Caravansery becomes a temporary refuge, offering a moment of respite and reflection before the mission ahead.

Revelations and Preparations

As Cell 317 prepares for their mission, they discover they will be using individual space suits and lightweight rocket stages to reach the Daban Urnud. The avout grapple with the reality of their mission, realizing they are to be a diversion while other strategies are employed against the Geometers. Meanwhile, discussions reveal potential connections between the Third Sack and the Geometers' arrival, suggesting a deeper historical and cosmic significance to their mission.

The Laterran's Truth Unveiled

Jules Verne Durand, a Laterran posing as a Matarrhite, reveals his true identity and mission. He explains the history of the Daban Urnud, a ship that has traveled between cosmi, bringing upheaval to each world it visits. The Urnudans, fearing the power of the Incanters, have infiltrated the Convox to assess the threat. Jules warns of the potential for conflict and the need for diplomacy, as the Pedestal considers a pre-emptive strike against Arbre.

Mission to the Daban Urnud

Cell 317's mission becomes clear: they are to board the Daban Urnud, a heavily armed Geometer ship. The avout must train on the equipment provided, including space suits and rocket stages, to prepare for the journey. The mission is fraught with danger, as they must navigate the complexities of inter-cosmic politics and the potential for conflict with the Geometers. The avout face the unknown, driven by a sense of duty and the hope of preventing a catastrophic war.

Final Preparations and Suiting Up

As the avout prepare for their mission to the Daban Urnud, they undergo rigorous training with their new space suits. Jesry demonstrates the suit's features, including its mechanical hands and life-support systems. The suits, designed centuries ago, are a marvel of engineering, allowing the avout to survive in space for extended periods. The team, including Erasmas, Arsibalt, and Lio, must adapt quickly to the suits' complexities, as they are crucial for the mission's success. The avout's determination is palpable as they prepare to embark on a journey that could change the fate of their world.

Launch and Orbital Chaos

The launch is a harrowing experience for Erasmas and his companions, as they are thrust into orbit in cramped, dark conditions. The journey is fraught with danger, as the avout must navigate the complexities of space travel with limited visibility and communication. Erasmas faces a critical moment when he must retrieve a drifting nuclear payload, a task that tests his resolve and skill. The chaos of the launch and the subsequent maneuvers highlight the precariousness of their mission and the stakes involved.

The Tether and the Decoy

Once in orbit, the avout deploy a five-mile-long electrodynamic tether to generate thrust without revealing their position. This maneuver allows them to adjust their trajectory toward the Daban Urnud stealthily. Simultaneously, they launch a decoy to distract the Geometers, simulating an attack that draws attention away from their true intentions. The success of these tactics is crucial, as they enable the avout to approach the alien ship undetected, setting the stage for their infiltration.

Infiltration of the Daban Urnud

The avout, led by the Valers, make a daring approach to the Daban Urnud, using their suits' stealth capabilities to avoid detection. The Valers, skilled in combat, take the lead in securing a foothold on the ship, sacrificing themselves to ensure the mission's success. Their actions create an opportunity for the remaining avout to enter the ship and engage with the Geometers. The infiltration is a pivotal moment, as it allows the avout to negotiate with the alien visitors and prevent a potential conflict.

Diplomacy and New Beginnings

With the Valers' sacrifice paving the way, the avout engage in diplomatic talks with the Geometers. The discussions lead to a historic agreement, establishing a new era of cooperation between the two worlds. The avout's actions have far-reaching implications, as they bridge the gap between the mathic and Sæcular worlds, fostering a new understanding of the cosmos. The mission's success marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Arbre, as the avout and the Geometers work together to explore the mysteries of the universe.

Characters

Fraa Erasmas

Erasmas is a dedicated member of the Concent of Saunt Edhar, driven by a thirst for knowledge and understanding. His curiosity leads him to question the closure of the starhenge and the motives of the Inquisitors. Despite the risk of punishment, he takes bold actions to uncover the truth, demonstrating his commitment to the ideals of the mathic world.

Fraa Orolo

Orolo is a respected cosmographer and mentor to Erasmas. He possesses knowledge about the starhenge's closure but remains tight-lipped, suggesting a deeper understanding of the situation. His actions and cryptic advice guide Erasmas, hinting at a larger cosmic significance to the events unfolding.

Suur Trestanas

Trestanas is the Warden Regulant, responsible for maintaining discipline within the concent. Her decision to punish Erasmas with penance reflects her strict adherence to rules and possibly her ambition to assert control. Her interactions with the Inquisitors suggest she is aware of the larger stakes involved.

Inquisitor Varax

Varax is one of the Inquisitors visiting the concent. His presence indicates a significant investigation, possibly related to the starhenge. He engages with Erasmas in a way that suggests he is probing for information, adding to the intrigue surrounding the Inquisitors' true purpose.

Inquisitor Onali

Onali accompanies Varax, sharing in the investigation of the concent. Her demeanor is calm and observant, suggesting a deep understanding of the situation. Her presence alongside Varax reinforces the seriousness of the investigation and the potential threat it represents.

Fraa Jesry

Jesry is a close friend of Erasmas, known for his skill in theorics. His unexpected choice during Eliger reflects the shifting dynamics within the concent and the influence of recent events. His decision highlights the uncertainty and pressure faced by the avout in choosing their paths.

Suur Tulia

Tulia is a fellow fid and friend to Erasmas. She provides support and insight during his penance, helping him navigate the complex social dynamics of the concent. Her presence offers a sense of stability and understanding amid the chaos of recent events.

Fraa Lio

Lio is known for his strategic mind and resourcefulness. His actions during the Tenth Night reveal his ability to think on his feet and handle challenging situations. His choice during Eliger reflects his pragmatic approach to the uncertainties facing the avout.

Fraa Arsibalt

Arsibalt is a thoughtful and introspective member of the concent. His decision to join the Reformed Old Faanians during Eliger reflects his desire to influence change and address the challenges facing the mathic world. His choice underscores the political considerations influencing the avout's decisions.

Cord

Cord is Erasmas's sib, an artisan with a keen interest in the workings of the concent. Her interactions with Erasmas provide a link to the outside world and a different perspective on the events unfolding within the concent. Her presence highlights the intersection of the mathic and Sæcular worlds.

Sammann

Sammann is an Ita with hidden motives and a crucial piece of information. His decision to join the group and share the photomnemonic tablet suggests a complex relationship with the Sæcular Power. Sammann's presence raises questions about trust and loyalty, as the group navigates the delicate balance between secrecy and collaboration.

Jules Verne Durand

Jules is a linguist from Laterre, posing as a Matarrhite to assess the threat of the Incanters. He reveals the history of the Daban Urnud and the Pedestal's fear of Arbre's potential power. His presence in Cell 317 adds a layer of complexity to the mission, as he navigates his divided loyalties.

Plot Devices

The Starhenge

The starhenge is a key astronomical observatory within the concent, central to the unfolding mystery. Its unexpected closure suggests a significant event or discovery that the hierarchs wish to keep hidden. The starhenge symbolizes the avout's connection to the cosmos and the potential for cosmic events to impact their world.

Last updated: February 5, 2025