Part 1, Chapter 6 The Song of Electrons Summary

Toby stands on the hull and gazes out. Signs of mech pursuit have been detected from several directions by the long-range scanners. Argo is being forced toward the black hole at True Center, a trap indeed. Toby is here to summon Quath to the family gathering. The event starts with raucous music and a light-hearted dance. Members of Family Bishop mingle with newer refugees from the planet New Bishop. The Family will consume alcohol, making them more confident and even more reckless than usual. Then they will decide on their next course of action.

Quath confirms what many have guessed. The mechs will trap Argo near the black hole's whirlpool. Her own species is nearby, with their Cosmic Circle. Killeen uses the family sensorium to project ancient texts in everyone's left eye, and...