Orphans of the Sky
Hugh learns that the ship, believed to travel to Centaurus, is actually a metaphor for spiritual perfection. While the ship’s metal corridors and sacred Convertor sustain its motion, grotesque muties inhabit its upper decks, possibly serving as a divine check on humanity. Captured by the muties, Hugh meets their two‑headed leader, Joe‑Jim, and discovers the ship’s true purpose, questioning whether he can convince his people to let him command it.