Chapter 51 Summary

Rodion wants clarification about this "created life," so Brother John says he will create a floppy for them. He concentrates, and then explains that the room is wired to him specifically; and in front of them on the floor small cubes appear very similar to the ones into which the ice monster disappeared. When it is finished, Brother John is looking at it with a mixture of joy and wonder. He tells him that it isn't proof of God. At first Odd doesn't see it, but then he looks closer at what at first glance is a cute and cuddly, little critter fully formed, with big eyes—but the eyes are empty. The creature has no soul, though it displays indications of life.

Rodion tells Brother John that for all of his soul searching, John doesn't know himself very well. He is...