Chapter 1[]
The protagonist, Joseph Severn, attends a lavish party on the eve of a significant event—the departure of an armada for war. The party takes place at Government House in Tau Ceti Center, where guests from various worlds of the Web gather. Severn interacts with various guests, including Diana Philomel and her husband Hermund, who express support for the war against the Ousters. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, Severn remains detached and critical, reflecting on the folly of war and the jingoistic fervor of the crowd. The chapter ends with Severn being summoned by CEO Gladstone, hinting at further developments to come.
Chapter 2[]
We are introduced to Meina Gladstone, a political leader in the Final Age, who is compared to figures like Abraham Lincoln and Alvarez-Temp. Gladstone is depicted as a tall, thin woman with a distinctive aquiline countenance and large, sad brown eyes. She is the CEO of the Senate and leader of a vast government serving billions of people.
The scene takes place during a meeting attended by several high-ranking individuals, including cabinet members, FORCE chiefs of staff, senators, and a TechnoCore Councilor. The protagonist, M. Joseph Severn, is introduced as an artist invited to provide a unique perspective to the discussion.
During the meeting, Severn expresses his blunt opinions about the ongoing war to rescue Hyperion from the Ouster barbarians, causing tension among the attendees. Despite their initial skepticism, CEO Gladstone defends Severn's presence and acknowledges the importance of his perspective.
Severn reveals his ability to access real-time events through dreams connected to a counterpart, the first retrieval persona, and shares information about the Shrike pilgrims' journey to Hyperion. The discussion delves into the motives and actions of each pilgrim, including Father Hoyt, Silenus, Colonel Kassad, Sol Weintraub, Brawne Lamia, and the Consul.
Gladstone instructs Severn to accompany them in the coming days and warns him to maintain discretion about his true identity and affiliations. As Severn leaves, Gladstone's aide, Leigh Hunt, reminds him of their awareness of his true nature.
Chapter 3[]
Brawne Lamia, Sol Weintraub, Martin Silenus, the Consul, Colonel Kassad, and Father Hoyt, are camping near the Time Tombs on the planet Hyperion. They are on a pilgrimage to confront the enigmatic creature known as the Shrike. As they gather around their fire, tensions rise due to exhaustion, uncertainty about the Shrike's whereabouts, and the ongoing conflict between the Hegemony and the Ousters.
The group experiences a sandstorm, during which Father Hoyt disappears. Brawne Lamia and Colonel Kassad search for him, suspecting he may have gone into one of the nearby tombs. Lamia heads towards the Sphinx and later the Jade Tomb, where she catches a glimpse of a figure disappearing into the entrance. Lamia, determined to find Hoyt, continues her search despite the storm and the ominous atmosphere surrounding the tombs.
Chapter 4[]
We find ourselves immersed in a military briefing attended by various high-ranking officials and decision-makers, including CEO Meina Gladstone. The scene is described in detail, from the gray walls and gunmetal gray horseshoe table to the presence of aides and the hierarchical seating arrangement. The briefing officer, Colonel Yani, delivers information about the ongoing conflict with the Ouster migration cluster, detailing battles and casualties.
As the briefing progresses, tensions rise, especially when CEO Gladstone questions the adequacy of their military response and the lack of evacuation plans for Hyperion's population. The conversation reveals strategic decisions and the assessment of military capabilities, with General Morpurgo assuring Gladstone of their readiness to handle the situation.
After the briefing, the protagonist, Joseph Severn, leaves Government House and seeks solace in a bar on the Grand Concourse. He finds himself unable to escape the influence of Gladstone, as her speech plays on a flatscreen TV in the bar. Eventually, he is joined by Diana Philomel, who reminds him of a promise to draw her. Despite Severn's intoxicated state, he accompanies Lady Philomel to her vehicle, where they depart for her home.
Chapter 5[]
Colonel Fedmahn Kassad, determined to find the elusive phantom named Moneta, follows Brawne Lamia and Father Lenar Hoyt through a raging dust storm towards the Jade Tomb. Despite lying to Lamia about his night visor malfunctioning, Kassad's equipment works well, allowing him to track their heat signatures. He acknowledges the risk of leaving their camp unprotected but doubts his ability to stop the Shrike.
As Lamia struggles through the storm, experiencing real lightning and losing communication with the others, she reaches the Jade Tomb's glowing entrance. Inside, Father Hoyt, tormented by excruciating pain from his implanted cruciforms, screams obscenities and wanders through the maze-like catacombs. Desperate for relief, he carries holy items but finds no solace.
In a large chamber within the tomb, Hoyt encounters a trapdoor leading to flames below. As Lamia arrives, Hoyt is consumed by agony, clawing at his cruciforms. Suddenly, the Shrike appears, its menacing presence looming over Hoyt. Lamia fires her pistol, distracting the Shrike briefly. Hoyt, realizing his imminent demise, attempts to convey something to Lamia but is swiftly impaled by the Shrike. As blood pours from his wounds, Hoyt falls lifeless, leaving Lamia stunned and horrified by the sight.
Chapter 6[]
Joseph Severn wakes up beside Lady Diana Philomel, admiring her perfect body. Their intimate moment is interrupted when two intimidating men enter the room, causing Severn to feel vulnerable and threatened. Despite his attempts to resist, he is subdued and subjected to interrogation.
Under the influence of truth serum, Severn reveals that he is a cybrid, genetically perfect human remotes created by the Core. He discloses information about his origins, his connection to the TechnoCore, and his involvement in the Council's affairs regarding the Shrike Pilgrims and the war with the Ousters. Tensions rise as the situation becomes more dangerous, but Executive Security forces led by Leigh Hunt intervene, rescuing Severn and apprehending his captors.
Severn, battered and disoriented, is attended to by Hunt and his team, who assure him of his safety and escort him back to Government House for a meeting with CEO Meina Gladstone. The excerpt highlights Severn's vulnerability, the complex political landscape surrounding the Council's actions, and the looming threat of war and destruction.
Chapter 7[]
The protagonist walks through Government House's garden with CEO Meina Gladstone, reflecting on recent events and their implications. The setting is described as a Star of David-shaped building, with a garden at its center. Gladstone, wearing a robe, and the protagonist walk in silence until he questions her decision to allow his interrogation. Gladstone explains that it was for security reasons, as the interrogators were not transmitting any information. They discuss the identities of those interrogating him, linking them to Harbrit and Philomel, with ties to royalist factions and the Shrike church.
As they continue their conversation, Gladstone asks about the protagonist's poetry-writing habits. He admits to occasionally dreaming in verse but expresses disillusionment with the poetic process. Gladstone then inquires about what kind of poem he would write about the current events, prompting a discussion about the displacement of gods and humanity's role in the unfolding events. Severn reflects on the Ultimates' quest to construct an Ultimate Intelligence, pondering the implications of creating a god-like entity.
Their conversation delves into philosophical questions about the responsibility of gods towards their creations and the role of humanity in the face of advancing technology. Gladstone references Christianity and the Shrike, hinting at deeper connections between the protagonist and the events surrounding the Shrike. She suggests that Severn’s fate may be intertwined with the outcome of the Shrike's encounter with pilgrims.
Chapter 8[]
Amidst a raging sandstorm near the Jade Tomb, Colonel Fedmahn Kassad returns with the lifeless body of Father Lenar Hoyt, followed by Brawne Lamia, Martin Silenus, Sol Weintraub, and the Consul. Kassad's tactical equipment fails to detect any threat around them, leaving them vulnerable to the unknown dangers lurking in the storm. Upon their return to the camp, they seek refuge in Silenus's tent as the storm wreaks havoc outside.
Inside the tent, they assess Hoyt's condition, confirming his demise despite Lamia's attempt to fend off an unseen assailant with her pistol. They debate their options, realizing that they are stranded without the means to escape the storm or seek medical help. Kassad suggests using the ship for surgery, but they discover that Gladstone, the governing authority, has overridden their clearance to approach the Tombs.
As tensions rise and desperation sets in, they grapple with the grim reality of their situation. The Consul's attempt to contact Gladstone proves futile, leaving them isolated and at the mercy of the storm. Meanwhile, Hoyt's body begins to exhibit signs of decomposition, raising fears of his potential resurrection due to the cruciforms implanted within him.
In a mixture of frustration, despair, and dark humor, they decide to seek shelter in one of the nearby Tombs, resigning themselves to wait out the storm and confront whatever dangers may come their way. As they brave the elements and carry Hoyt's body towards their makeshift sanctuary, they grapple with the uncertainty of their fate and the looming presence of the enigmatic Shrike.
Chapter 9[]
CEO Meina Gladstone's morning schedule on Tau Ceti Center was packed with meetings and farcasting. She met with military advisors, breakfasted with important senators and representatives, officially opened the Hermes Medical Center on Renaissance Vector, had a meeting with top aides to go over a speech, received updates on the situation in the Hyperion system from military leaders, and finally met with M. Severn.
During their conversation, Severn questioned Gladstone about abandoning Father Hoyt on Hyperion. Gladstone explained that Hoyt's wish was to die, and allowing him to do so was not the issue. Instead, she emphasized the importance of the pilgrims' journey and the significance of their decisions.
Gladstone then proposed sending Severn to Hyperion to report back to her personally. Despite the potential danger, Severn agreed to go, and Gladstone expressed her gratitude. She explained that Severn's observations as a trained poet were valuable to her.
Later, Severn and Leigh Hunt farcasted to the flagship of the fleet in the Hyperion system. They found themselves in a cramped corridor of the ship, unlike the grandiose depictions of warships in fiction. They were led to the combat control center, where Admiral Nashita received them brusquely.
After delivering Gladstone's message and Senate motion to Nashita, Hunt requested transport to Hyperion itself. Nashita initially refused, but eventually agreed to arrange transport for them. They departed in a dropship bound for Hyperion's surface.
During the journey, they conversed with a young lieutenant who described the situation on Hyperion, where tensions were high among the locals. As they approached Hyperion, Severn reflected on the absence of windows in the dropship, feeling a sense of unease.
Chapter 10[]
Sol Weintraub, Brawne Lamia, Martin Silenus, and the Consul, along with Het Masteen's Möbius cube and the body of Lenar Hoyt, make their way down to the entrance of the Sphinx in the midst of a snowstorm. Sol carries his daughter Rachel, feeling her warmth against his chest and fearing for her life if they don't find the Shrike soon.
Inside the Time Tomb, they find the first room small and cold, with dead glow-globes and electric lights. Father Hoyt's body is in the next room, even colder. Sol takes his place near the others as they discuss their situation and plan to try the comlog again later.
Sol volunteers to stand watch while tending to Rachel's needs. However, their rest is interrupted by the sound of Kassad's rifle or another weapon from outside the tomb. They listen in silence, and the night suddenly erupts with explosions and noise, causing them all to cringe in fear and cover their ears. Rachel's screams blend with the chaos surrounding them.
Chapter 11[]
Joseph Severn and Leigh Hunt arrive on Hyperion via dropship, greeted by Governor-General Theo Lane. They observe the chaotic conditions at the spaceport, overwhelmed by refugees and military presence. Lane escorts them to his skimmer, opting for a low-profile approach despite the tense situation.
During the skimmer ride, Lane discusses the refugee crisis, the threat of Ouster invasion, and the mysterious degradation of the anti-entropic fields around the Time Tombs. Severn notices Melio Arundez, a physicist from Reichs University and Rachel Weintraub’s boyfriend, and engages him in conversation about Rachel Weintraub and the Time Tombs.
Arundez reveals the frustration of his team's attempts to study the Tombs and their potential connection to the Shrike. Severn promises to try to help Arundez and gathers information about the urgency of the situation.
Upon returning to the dropship, Severn maintains secrecy about his conversation with Arundez, leaving Hunt curious. They return to the CEO's office via farcaster portal, where Gladstone is addressing the Senate.
Severn reflects on the brief but eventful trip, realizing the gravity of the situation on Hyperion and the potential implications for Rachel Weintraub's fate.
Chapter 12[]
The chapter begins with a session in the Senate of the Hegemony of Man, where CEO Gladstone delivers a speech addressing the current state of belligerency with the Ousters. The Senate chamber is described as reminiscent of the United States Senate building, with rich wine-red carpets and muirwood desks. Gladstone's speech emphasizes the necessity of war for the sake of preserving peace, urging unity and resolve among the citizens. Despite the powerful message, not all senators show unanimous support, hinting at growing opposition to Gladstone's leadership and the war effort. Leigh Hunt expresses a need to see Gladstone, indicating the importance of their meeting. Additionally, Hunt informs the protagonist of an invitation to a state dinner and a subsequent meeting with FORCE:command, both of which the protagonist is expected to attend. Despite the protagonist's seemingly casual response, Hunt seems perplexed by the protagonist's involvement in these events.
Chapter 13[]
In this chapter, Fedmahn Kassad, finds himself under attack in a hostile environment. Initially targeted by what seems to be a sniper, Kassad quickly realizes he's facing a sophisticated adversary employing advanced weaponry. Despite his combat skills and technological advantages, Kassad is challenged by the unseen assailant, who demonstrates a deep understanding of tactics and strategy.
As the confrontation escalates, Kassad's determination to survive intensifies. He employs a variety of tactics and weapons, including laser fire, explosives, and high-energy projectiles, to counter the threat posed by the sniper. However, the odds seem stacked against him as the sniper continues to attack with deadly precision.
Amidst the chaos of battle, Kassad reflects on his past encounters, particularly with a phantom lover named Moneta, whose presence haunts him even in the midst of combat. These memories serve to both motivate and disorient him as he struggles to overcome the relentless assault.
Despite sustaining injuries and facing overwhelming firepower, Kassad refuses to back down. With sheer determination and sheer grit, he presses forward, determined to confront his adversary and emerge victorious.
As Kassad finally reaches his destination, the tension reaches its peak, setting the stage for a confrontation with the enigmatic figure awaiting him in the darkness.
Chapter 14[]
The chapter is set in the farcaster reception area of Treetops, where Joseph Severn converses with various guests at a dinner party. The atmosphere is sophisticated and luxurious, with Treetops being a renowned dining establishment situated atop immense trees on a forest world. The upper levels of Treetops are reserved for the elite, including politicians, artists, and socialites.
Joseph engages in conversation with Tyrena Wingreen-Feif, a prominent figure in literary fashion, discussing topics ranging from their respective residences to the works of Martin Silenus. Tyrena exudes an air of superiority and social status, while Joseph navigates the conversation with wit and curiosity.
The dinner party is also attended by influential figures such as Meina Gladstone, the CEO, and various political and military leaders from different worlds across the Web. Discussions unfold around themes of war, art, religion, and the pursuit of higher consciousness.
Spenser Reynolds, an action artist, expounds on the idea of warfare as an art form, drawing parallels between artistic expression and military strategy. His views spark debate among the guests, including General Morpurgo and Councilor Albedo, representing different perspectives on the nature of warfare and human evolution.
The conversation shifts to topics of religion, artificial intelligence, and the rumored creation of a perfect replica of Old Earth by the TechnoCore. Councilor Albedo's response to Joseph's inquiry about the rumor is met with amusement and skepticism, adding intrigue to the dinner conversation.
Chapter 15[]
M. Severn finds himself unexpectedly transported to Mars, a location deliberately made difficult to reach in this society. He is attending a briefing led by military leaders and political figures about the ongoing struggle against the Ouster Swarm in the Hyperion System.
During the briefing, it becomes clear that the military is struggling to contain the Ouster threat, and there is tension between the military commanders and political leaders. Admiral Nashita requests significant reinforcements to combat the Ouster Swarm, which raises concerns about the concentration of forces and potential risks to other colonies. Despite objections from some, Meina Gladstone, the CEO, ultimately authorizes the reinforcements.
After the briefing, Severn reflects on the events and expresses frustration with the political decisions made. He discusses his encounter with Dr. Melio Arundez, who is researching the mysterious phenomena surrounding the Tombs and the enigmatic Shrike. Severn is disappointed by Gladstone's decision not to allow Arundez to investigate further and expresses concern about the fate of civilians on Hyperion.