Chapter 9, Shadow Squares Summary

Nessus is fearful of being attacked by the Ringworld and wants Speaker to fly toward the sun so that they can get a good look at the interior without appearing threatening as well as getting a good look at the shadow squares above the Ringworld. The puppeteer believes that the shadow squares gather sunlight and convert it to power. Speaker disagrees with the plan. To end the fight, Louis recommends taking a closer look at the shadow squares through the telescope to see what they can find out.

While Louis sleeps, Nessus and Speaker learn that the shadow squares are moving faster than expected and agree to go in for a closer look. Part of the world has turned to desert, an indication that the Ringworld may have reverted to savagery. There are two oceans on opposite sides of...