Chapter Three: The Name on the Silver Bell

Every signature page was numbered 12 of 13. “Our contract had twelve pages,” Luca said. Lin found the hidden thirteenth. Its print was nearly invisible: During force-majeure substitutions, passengers consent to the carrier's temporary custody of memories causing persistent mental distress; identities, relationships, and supporting records connected to such memories may be treated as associated property. Every passenger had signed, including Roman Bell. His signature was fading as they watched. Amara photographed the page. On her screen, it appeared blank. “The town didn't discover our secrets,” Lin said. “Your agency sold them to it.” “Nobody sold you! The route simply repeats. Headquarters can't stop the low water.”