As Layth and the others attempt to remove the Sifran artifacts, Tasha is off dealing with MOTHER. Layth's team discovers the Sifran artifacts have expanded their influence since last they were checked by Expedition forces, causing much concern, and an increased rush to remove them from MOTHER's systems. Shortly after, MOTHER attempts to protect her control of the artifacts, initiating the Themis-Skoll's engines in an effort to incinerate everyone on board. With the artifacts secured, Tasha, Layth, and everyone evacuate the starship. In the end, the ship is once again entombed by the colapsing mountian, and the Themis-Skoll frees itself, ascending through the clouds and beyond sight. Now free, the Karnors face the sun after sixty centuries of sleep.