Part 4 — Chapter 5

Summary

• The story protagonist leads a mundane, nocturnal lifestyle. Works evening shifts at a hotel, often speculating on the simulation hypothesis - the prospect of living in a simulated world.
• During a conversation with a woman, Talia, she dismisses the idea, arguing that a simulation should be superior to their current reality.
• The protagonist reflects on the nature of his moon colony, noting the sense of decline. The colonists' embarrassment over the colony's shabbiness is realized.
• Visiting a friend, Zoey, he learns that allure has shifted to newer colonies, indicating socieo-economic hierarchies.
• Asks Zoey about individuals from a letter written in the 20th century. Zoey reveals both had sad fates, sparking the protagonist's interest in time travel.
• Zoey explains her experience with time travel, emphasizing the psychological burden of knowing people's fates and not intervening. The protagonist expresses interest in participating - Zoey rejects the idea.
• Despite Zoey's warnings of danger and psychological testing, the protagonist insists on being considered for time travel, driven by the opportunity to gain purpose and escape his stagnant existence.