Book 1, Chapters 3-4 Summary

Knott stands out physically in public but there are only "bundling booths" around, and she is not in the mood. While she waits in a bathroom, Davis buys and passes in body makeup, hair dye, and a red dress. Shortly, she emerges unrecognizable, neither Afro nor European, and shorter in bare feet. Davis whistles as she smiles and undulates. They find the hotel where Davis is booked, which features unlimited water and automated room service. Knott enjoys a bath and Davis places an order. When it arrives, he passes in a martini.

Knott guesses Davis is married. He is fifth of nine husbands in a "line marriage" that includes four wives and 17 children. He "opts" in at 14. Consanguinity rules are strict, but they make an exception for Ludmilla ("Milla"), eldest wife Mum's 15-year-old granddaughter. Davis is free to come...