The Mikkelsons and their kids spread to the four winds in the 1990’s, reflecting a newly global culture. Slowly, they avail themselves of the communications capabilities spread through the Internet. By the end of the decade, however, the earth’s human population has exceeded six billion and pockets of it are reeling from wars and ecological stress.

Paul returns to teaching in order to help his family, but the Minnesota cabin is decaying and there is little money for upkeep. Marie brightens his life with her singing, though her flame begins to flicker. Marty, now alone, explores the world of the East. The practice of tai chi energizes her. She finds a soul-mate in someone who is already married, which is painful for everyone. Line’s family moves to Scotland when her husband takes a position at the university in Edinburgh. Line is homesick, but she deepens her commitment to healing and gardens. She can hardly keep up with her grownup kids’ roving passions.