27. Just Passing Through

Bob and his crew part ways with Kar's group as they transition from the Arcadia River to the Utopia River via the Gronk tributary. They arrive at Three Lagoons, a larger town than previous settlements, and split up to gather information. When Bob cannot reach Bridget after hours of eavesdropping in local pubs, he realizes something may have gone wrong.

Bob observes Kar and the Quinlan crew discussing the river changeover, noting Kar's religious-sounding reverence for the Administrator. As the boat enters the Gronk tributary, Bob witnesses the river-bottom impellers creating choppy conditions and a surge effect. After exiting the turbulent section, Three Lagoons comes into view. Bridget declines Kar's invitation to homestead with his group, explaining they intend to return home eventually. The crew leaves the boat and swims to shore, arriving at Three Lagoons during what feels like rush hour traffic. They check into a transient hotel and divide tasks: Garfield secures lodging, Bridget heads to the library, Bill watches the dock, and Bob frequents the dockside pub. Bob spends hours eavesdropping on local conversations but learns only routine gossip about Quinlans' financial and relationship matters. Bill and Garfield visit other pubs while Bob remains at the dockside location. After three more hours, Bob attempts to contact Bridget and receives no response, alarming him and the others.