Short Fiction · Chapter
Last Enemy explained
Dallona and Dirzed present evidence of conscious discarnate survival, leading to political turmoil as Statisticalist and Volitionalist factions clash.
What happens
Dallona and Dirzed present evidence of conscious discarnate survival, leading to political turmoil as Statisticalist and Volitionalist factions clash. Verkan Vall, Dalla, and allies barricade themselves in a dome under siege, while Tortha Karf discusses the Akor-Neb Sector. The chapter culminates in escalating violence and a city-wide riot.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Corruption
Statisticalists use assassination and political manipulation to suppress opposition; Volitionalists retaliate with violence.
Identity and Memory
Dallona's experiments prove discarnate individuals retain consciousness and memory, challenging Statisticalist ideology.
Violence and Justice
Illegal assassinations and armed conflict erupt as political factions vie for control.
Characters to notice
- Dallona of Hadron
Presents evidence of discarnate consciousness; under threat from Statisticalists; participates in defense.
- Verkan Vall
Leads defense of the dome; discusses politics and Dalla's work; plans escape.
- Dirzed
Assassin guarding Dallona; participates in experiments and defense.
- Tortha Karf
Chief of Paratime Police; questions Vall about the Akor-Neb Sector.
- Girzon of Roxor
Volitionalist nobleman; discusses his father's discarnation and political implications.
- Jirzyn of Starpha
Volitionalist prince; arranges Assassin escort; provides refuge in his apartment.
Key passages
“I was elected by Statisticalist votes, and I cannot hold office as a Volitionalist.”
Nirzav resigns from the Executive Council because his election was backed by Statisticalists, making it improper for him to serve as a Volitionalist.
Nirzav's political shift triggers the crisis.
“The Statisticalists would be sure to have a spy planted among them.”
Girzon warns that a Statisticalist spy is likely present among the guests, endangering Nirzav.
Highlights the pervasive surveillance and paranoia.
“I think it's conclusive proof that the discarnate Garnon was fully conscious and communicating.”
Harnosh asserts that the experiment proves discarnate individuals retain consciousness and can communicate telepathically.
Key scientific evidence for the Volitionalist cause.
“The Statisticalists will denounce the whole thing as a prearranged fraud.”
Jirzyn predicts the Statisticalists will claim the experiment was faked, undermining its credibility.
Political reaction to the scientific findings.
“If we get home.”
Verkan Vall expresses doubt about their survival, hinting at the danger of their mission.
Underlines the high stakes and uncertainty.