After running into an old graffiti of his younger self titled "Remember the Cant", Holden remembers his first meeting with Captain McDowell in a bar on Ceres. Ten years earlier, McDowell struggles to integrate as an Earther among Belters, when he overhears Holden telling a funny story to a table full of Belter friends. Seeing his popularity despite being from Earth, and sensing he has prior experience in the navy, McDowell offers Holden a position on the Canterbury. Holden initially refuses, but is convinced when McDowell explains he will have good benefits and minimal responsibility. The Belters pour McDowell a drink, and he toasts with Holden and his friends.