As the Gordons prepare for the Council of Judgement by calling various Ina families, Shori learns more about Ina law. The Council is to be formed by representatives from 13 families; the Silks deny the Gordons’ accusation but agree to the Council. Later, Theodora arrives. Shori learns that she will need a lawyer to join her symbiont family in order to settle their financial affairs. The Gordon community prepares for the arrival of the representatives and their symbionts. Shori learns more about Joel’s father, Martin. He was previously a history teacher, so he enjoys sharing human and Ina history with Shori. At first, he was afraid of joining the Gordons because “it sounded more like slavery than symbiosis,” but he ultimately wished to be with the Ina (204). Martin gives Shori advice on how to balance her life with competing symbionts, and has faith that Joel will be happy with her.

As Ina begin arriving for the Council, Shori discovers that many are distant relatives to whom she must explain her amnesia. She learns about many of the families’ connections and wishes to meet an Ina female, as she has only met males so far.