When missing expeditionary Josie Hunter walks back into the settlement, unharmed, the jubilant air quickly takes a darker tone. Josie is different, her children cannot communicate with her, and reports of her violent behaviour circulate. Tate and Stella must find out what is behind this changed Josie, and begin to come to terms with what is really at work on the planet.

A new virus - C24 - hits Forthaven. Berger seizes his opportunity, blaming the virus on the ACs, and exposing Fleur's true origins in an attempt to undermine confidence in President Tate.