“Bad Thoughts About Authority” fill the air as the narrator and Sol find themselves anchored along a calm canal, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of orchards and fields. Sol, usually vibrant and full of life, shrinks under a blanket as she sleeps, which prompts the narrator to reflect on her vulnerability. The circumstances they’re facing weigh heavily on him, and although he wishes to soothe her with music from his bass guitar, his mind fails to recall a melody that could bring comfort in their shared isolation.

As the day breaks, the peaceful morning is punctuated by the sight of children flying a kite nearby. Sol, however, is immediately on edge, mistaking the flying kite for a threatening presence she calls a “death angel.” This belief, she explains, was passed on to her by someone named Richard, who spoke of celestial beings observing their every thought, especially regarding authority. This strange and somewhat disturbing worldview paints Sol as someone who holds dark beliefs, further emphasizing the complex layers of her character.

The morning begins to shift as they settle into a more lighthearted moment, with Sol suggesting they make pancakes. As they enjoy their meal under the sun, they briefly leave behind the disturbing notion of death angels. Sol becomes fascinated with the kite and expresses a desire to fly it herself, prompting the narrator to reminisce about his own experiences with kite flying, which he recalls as a simple yet joyful activity, akin to catching a fish in the sky. This moment of connection serves as a brief reprieve from the heavy thoughts that have clouded their journey.

However, their peaceful morning is soon disrupted by a group of local boys. At first, they appear innocent enough, but things quickly escalate when they start shooting at the narrator with air rifles and rutabagas, an absurd and irritating attack. Sol, undeterred by the boys’ antics, appears with a spear in hand, sending the boys fleeing in fear. This interaction highlights her fierce protectiveness and hints at the hidden strengths that she possesses, making it clear that she’s not easily intimidated by others.

As the pair continues their journey through the canal, they notice the stark contrast between the lively mainland and the deteriorating island. The island’s neglected homes and landscapes convey a sense of despair, and the growing tensions between the islanders and mainlanders are evident. Envy and resentment have taken root, highlighting the bitterness of the island’s inhabitants, who seem to view outsiders with suspicion and hostility. These tensions serve as a subtle reminder of the fragile dynamics that exist in this fractured world.

In need of supplies and fuel, the narrator and Sol visit a rundown gas station where they meet Douglas, a peculiar, talkative man who offers them some insight into the local dynamics. Douglas invites them to join a monthly communal vigil against perceived local evils, further immersing them in the strange rituals and customs of the area. Despite the unsettling atmosphere, the narrator and Sol manage to gather what they need for their journey, albeit with a lingering sense of discomfort.

As they leave, they notice the absence of a bulldog, a detail that catches the narrator’s attention. This absence raises questions, especially regarding Sol’s acquisition of cash to fund their provisions. It’s unclear where this money came from, and this lingering mystery adds depth to Sol’s character, suggesting that she may be harboring secrets that will unfold as the story progresses. This moment sets the stage for future revelations, keeping the reader intrigued and eager to learn more about Sol’s hidden motives and the complex world she navigates.