Chapter 29, Descent Summary

As Chang guides Galaxy downward, the clouds that perpetually shroud Europa's daylight side clear, and Mount Zeus comes into view. Chang moves the ship close to the mountain and attempts to land on ice. The ice breaks and he must use the ABORT program, which sends the craft skyward.

Chapter 29, Descent Analysis

The aborted landing sequence might mean that nobody will ever know of what Mount Zeus is made, diamond or some other hard material. The plot lunges away from the mysterious object, and Galaxy is in serious trouble. It must find a place to land somewhere in a hostile world. Meanwhile, Rose is thwarted also. She must have a serious interest in the mountain, possibly for the value of its material. Plot conflicts multiply with the aborted landing.