Chapter Seven: Political Comeback

Herschel inspects the SURGE drive repairs aboard the Bellerophon while in transit from New Pav to Omicron 2 Eridani. Neil arrives with news that the FAITH political faction is performing surprisingly well in the upcoming Romulus election cycle, threatening to gain significant power in that colony.

Herschel floats in the Bellerophon's drive cavern, examining the Others' SURGE drive technology and noting its heavy reliance on the main computer system for control. He reflects on the ongoing repairs to the ship's drive and central computer, which were damaged in the Delta Pavonis attack. The vessel is currently being transported by pusher plates while major drive components are replaced. Neil messages with updates and arrives in person to deliver significant political news. He reveals that FAITH, a religious faction opposed to technological advancement and historically hostile to AIs, is performing much better than expected in the upcoming Romulus election. Herschel expresses understanding for why post-trauma societies might resist rapid technological change, though FAITH's core position remains problematic to the AIs. Neil mentions that Will is already aware of the situation and likely has extensive intelligence networks. Both recognize this development will probably require their involvement.