Sally and her crew begin their journey to New Ontario in a Szzzyyyxx ship, but questions still emerge concerning Ian's strange crew member. They also speak to their unknown contact on New Ontario, who apparently has no name.

The trip to the center of the domain was almost as interesting as meeting Mother herself. It is a meeting that goes beyond the physical, and one where Sally must make an embarrasing request. But Will the Mother of the Szzzyyxx be willing to help them on a mission that could include violence?

Sally had been looking forward to meeting the Szzzyyyxx, but actually seeing them is quite another matter. She also meets Bass, a member of Ian's crew, who has dubious value and a hidden agenda. And soon she will meet the leader of all Szzzyyyxx.

While discussing her upcomming mission with Jackie, Sally meets Diego, a stranger who is vaguely familiear. He also has a means for them to meet up with Ian near a fold that nobody knows about. The creatures that live beyond it are amazing in every way.

On Baltan, Sally is confronted with news of new construction on New Ontario. A Russian spy drone delivered images of a massive pyramid shaped structure being built over one of the Masters' palaces and somebody on the planet wants to talk peace with Earth. Sally's only option is to call in a favor from an old friend.