While their contracts at and around the outpost are finished or being wrapped up, Jack feels like his time on Valena Three isn't quite yet over. He hasn't figured out what he wants to do with himself and his life, nor is he certain exactly where his potential relationship with Elizabeth might be going. Plus, Lyra still really wants to get to know him.
Apparently, Maureen feels the same way. She informs him that she has collected another batch of contracts to be completed in the far frozen north...