Summary

Chapter 12

Six years have passed. Shevek and his friend Bedap have begun the Syndicate of Initiative to publish Shevek’s books. This has caused a great amount of angst against Shevek and his family. Takver is having difficulties at work while their daughter is being bullied in the dormitories. Rulag, Shevek’s own mother, is the syndicate’s biggest heckler. It is a difficult time that only grows worse when Bedap and Shevek begin talking about sending an Andarre to Urras and bringing Urrasti to Andarre. That night, while talking about the treatment they have been suffering among their peers, Takver suggests that Shevek go to Urras. Shevek balks, telling her he is afraid he would not be allowed to return, but Takver thinks that this is what Shevek has wanted all along.

Chapter 13

Shevek is on a Hainish ship returning to Anarres...