Ezr Vinh returns to L1 a celebrated figure, bringing freed prisoners, including Jau Xin, and the first Spider visitors. Floria Peres emerges from coldsleep, prompting an emotional moment with Qiwi. Ezr, however, is preoccupied with Trixia Bonsol’s imminent deFocus.

At the lake park, Qiwi collaborates with her father, Ali Lin, and Spiders on habitat plans. Ezr tells Qiwi Trixia is out and rushes to the clinic. Anne Reynolt reports excellent results and unprecedented experience freeing thousands.

Ezr reunites tenderly with Trixia and proposes a shared future. Trixia explains how, during Focus, the Spider world became her refuge and identity. Now free of Emergent loyalty, she still chooses to center her life on understanding the Spiders, aiming to be a bridge between species.

Shocked, Ezr accuses Anne of leaving Trixia partially Focused and demands further deFocus. Anne explains the irreversible costs and that Trixia refuses deeper restructuring. Pham Nuwen intervenes, defending Anne and insisting that Trixia’s coherent, express choice must be respected.

Pham then warns Ezr about self-imposed fixation—waiting forever for Trixia—and points to Qiwi’s steadfast brilliance and unspoken devotion. Ezr realizes his blindness and, shaken, agrees to think and speak candidly with Qiwi.