Book Two, Chapter 23 Summary

On a rest stop the group emerges from the car to stretch their legs. Rolf wants to speak with Theo alone. He wants to make sure that Theo does not think he is the leader of the expedition. Rolf confesses that he would like to replace the Warden once it is revealed that he has fathered a child. He imagines his sperm will be sought after.

Rolf also admits that he has no intention of making the changes requested by the Five Fishes if he becomes Warden. He wants to be popular and he believes making the changes will work against this.

Theo raises a previously unspoken fear. What if the child is deformed? Theo then realizes it is something Rolf is worried about. He feels a moment of sympathy for Rolf. It is enough to stop him from...