Summary

In pages 102 - 144, the women debate the risks of becoming murderers if they do not leave. Agata and Greta remind the others of their oath to pacifism. Mariche wishes the men were dead. Ona says Mariche has never stood up to her husband Klaas's aggression. Furious, Mariche says Ona has no right to criticize her marriage. Salome thinks Mariche should worry her son Julius will become as violent as Klaas. The argument continues until Ona says love is all she can count on, though she does not understand it. The conversation turns again to forgiveness.

Ona believes forgiveness does not have to be spoken, but can be an internally achieved peace, which God recognizes. Agata agrees they may reach this state of forgiveness if they find a new perspective by leaving the colony. Mejal points to the setting sun. Greta believes leaving will...