After Eros sidesteps the Nauvoo, the Rocinante confirms the asteroid jumped two hundred kilometers in under a minute. Amos and Naomi reel, but Holden takes command. Naomi estimates the maneuver’s waste heat at roughly ten exajoules, reassuring Holden that the protomolecule obeys physics, not magic, despite its extraordinary efficiency.

Eros begins moving sunward. Holden orders the Roci to maintain distance, but the rock suddenly disappears from radar while remaining visible optically and thermally, and its eerie radio babble persists. The Roci pursues under rising g-load, keeping Eros in sight as it continues to accelerate.

Holden hails a nearby UNN corvette. Captain McBride of the Ravi takes the line and, after deliberation, agrees to accompany the Roci and keep command informed, reducing the risk of friendly fire while they gather intel during the chase.

Holden then contacts Fred Johnson. Concluding Eros is likely headed toward Earth, they acknowledge the stakes. Fred suggests remotely detonating the surface nukes to deflect Eros. Despite proximity fuses, Fred insists Miller has remote codes. As Alex pushes more juice to keep up, Holden calls Miller—who reveals he is still on Eros, holding the keys to the plan.