Chapter Sixty-Four: Something Interesting

Ferb (a Bob instance) receives George's latest report and learns of a significant discovery that has troubling implications. After three years of following George's progress through periodic reports, Ferb realizes something important has been revealed that will require Bill's immediate attention.

Ferb is awaiting George's routine report, which arrives on schedule. Over the three years since Ferb began receiving these reports, Ferb has gradually committed to a course heading that brings him closer to George, accelerating constantly while George stops periodically to survey star systems. The closing gap means Ferb receives reports at twice the rate George produces them. In recent weeks, George's reports have shifted from touristy observations to more technical content, suggesting something has been troubling him. Ferb prepares ceremonially for the report with snacks and drinks, then receives it. George's report contains a significant conclusion that Ferb recognizes as serious and concerning—not merely interesting but genuinely troubling in its implications. Ferb decides this discovery is important enough that Bill needs to know about it immediately and begins composing an email to inform him, since Ferb's current velocity prevents him from sustaining a VR session.