As the situation on Mars intensifies, back on Earth, the nations involved convene to negotiate their interests. China makes an offer of a rescue ship, forcing those at the council to choose sides. As the leaders deliberate, the humans on Mars find their conflicts reflecting those back home, as members of the expedition begin to turn on each other. Akari and Michelle make their way back to the rendezvous, but will they be welcomed or attacked? As always the Terraformers lurk with more surprises in store…