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The story revolves around Adequin Rake, a skilled and determined leader, and Cavalon, a brilliant engineer, as they navigate a complex and treacherous universe. The plot begins with Cavalon's struggles to build a perpetual jump drive to save 4,000 Sentinels stranded in space. Meanwhile, Rake returns from a mission and takes charge of the ship, the Typhos, later renamed the Lodestar. As they face numerous challenges, including encounters with hostile forces, Rake and Cavalon develop a strong bond, and their relationship deepens. Along the way, they uncover secrets about their past, including Cavalon's true identity as a clone of Augustus Mercer, and Rake's former life as Idra Le Calvez. The crew's mission to acquire ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive, leads them to the planet SCR-929-6, where they are ambushed by a Viator battlecruiser. Rake is captured by Augustus Mercer's forces, but later rescued by the Viators. The story takes a dramatic turn when Rake sacrifices herself to destroy the Lodestar and prevent their pursuers from following them. However, she is surprisingly rescued by the Viators and reunited with Cavalon on the secret planet of Akhet. The novel concludes with Rake and Cavalon reflecting on their experiences, planning to take down Augustus Mercer, and preparing for the challenges ahead, as they look to the future and the possibilities that Akhet may hold. Throughout the story, themes of identity, loyalty, and sacrifice are explored, as the characters navigate the complexities of their universe and confront their own demons.
The story follows Cavalon, an engineer, as he works on a top-priority project to build a "perpetual jump drive" that can generate a star onboard a spaceship. He is under immense pressure to complete the project, which is crucial for the survival of 4,000 Sentinels who are stranded and running out of food and water. Cavalon's frustration and exhaustion are palpable as he encounters numerous setbacks and errors, including a mysterious "Subsystem not found" error message. Despite his struggles, he perseveres with the help of his colleague Mesa, a Savant who is also working on the project. Together, they eventually make a breakthrough, and the system activates successfully. However, Cavalon's relief is short-lived, as he is soon overwhelmed by anxiety and panic, worrying about the project's overall success and the safety of his friend Rake, who has been gone for six months. The chapter ends with Cavalon feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope with the pressure and uncertainty of their situation.
As the crew of the Synthesis prepares to leave the ancient alien megastructure, Adequin Rake reflects on the challenges they've faced and the toll it's taken on her and her team. With the help of her colleague Emery Flos, they successfully activate the dark energy generator, despite some technical issues and eerie similarities to a past tragedy. Adequin's Imprint tattoos play a crucial role in the activation process, causing her significant pain and discomfort. After the activation, Emery takes the pilot's seat, and with Adequin's guidance, they navigate the ship out of the structure and into open space, engaging the warp drive to head back to their destination. Throughout the process, Adequin's leadership and Emery's enthusiasm are put to the test as they work together to overcome the obstacles and complete their mission.
Cavalon engages in a sparring session with Warner, the chief of security, in an attempt to clear his mind and find a solution to the cryostat issue. However, the session is cut short when Cavalon collapses due to a combination of exhaustion, hunger, and excessive epithesium consumption. He is taken to the medbay, where Doctor Ford Kellar diagnoses him with hyponatremia, a condition caused by low blood sodium, and orders him to reduce his epithesium intake. Jackin, the centurion, arrives and expresses concern about Cavalon's health and his excessive training, reminding him that he can only afford so much exercise due to the limited caloric resources. As they discuss Cavalon's situation, Jackin receives an urgent message, and his expression turns grave as he announces that an Excubitor is incoming, leaving Cavalon wondering what this means for their already precarious situation.
Adequin Rake arrives on the Typhos, a capital ship, after a five-week mission to restart ancient alien generators. She is greeted by Centurion Jackin, who has been managing the ship in her absence. Adequin is exhausted and struggling with the weight of her responsibilities as the leader of the rebellion. Jackin briefs her on the ship's status, including the struggles with food production and the need to reduce rations. He also informs her that the ship's drive is still not functional, and that Cavalon, the engineer working on the project, is stuck and needs her help. Adequin promotes Puck to centurion and tasks him with prioritizing the ship's roster and finding a replacement for the IT position. She then meets with Jackin to discuss the ship's issues, including the food shortage and the drive's malfunction. Jackin expresses his concerns about Cavalon's epithesium use and his refusal to take increased rations. Adequin agrees to talk to Cavalon and try to resolve the issues. The chapter ends with Adequin heading to the medbay to meet with Cavalon, while Jackin sends out meeting notes and awaits her next move.
Cavalon is struggling to focus on his work due to exhaustion and epithesium withdrawal when Rake arrives, having just returned from a five-week mission. Instead of reprimanding him, Rake surprises him with a plan to cook a meal together in a hidden galley on the ship. As they cook and eat, they engage in casual conversation, sharing stories and jokes. However, beneath the surface, Rake seems to be struggling with her own demons, and Cavalon senses that something is off. Despite this, their interaction helps Cavalon to clear his mind, and he has a breakthrough on the cryostat problem he's been working on. Rake offers to help him find a coder to run simulations and test his idea, and Cavalon sets off to meet a new recruit who might be able to assist him. The chapter ends with Rake alone, drinking whiskey and lost in thought, while Cavalon feels a sense of gratitude and renewed purpose.
Cavalon's encounter with Owen Larios, a skilled coder and old acquaintance, brings a mix of emotions and unexpected revelations. Owen's presence on the ship is a surprise, and Cavalon soon learns that she was sent to the Legion as a form of punishment by Augustus Mercer, Cavalon's grandfather, after she admitted to helping Cavalon with a past endeavor. As they work together to address the cryostat issue, Cavalon is impressed by Owen's expertise and they begin to make progress on the project. Despite their complicated past and the challenges they face, Cavalon feels a sense of relief and hope that with Owen's help, they may finally find a solution to their problems. Meanwhile, Cavalon's interactions with Owen also stir up feelings of guilt, loyalty, and concern for his friend Emery, who has developed feelings for Owen. As they plan to take a field trip outside to gather readings, Cavalon is reminded of the dangers and uncertainties of their situation, but with Owen by his side, he feels a renewed sense of determination and possibility.
Adequin Rake, still reeling from her recent mission, wakes up in her new quarters on the Typhos, struggling to adjust to the comforts of her stateroom after months of hardship. She meets with Jackin in the CIC, where they discuss the day's meeting with the other commanders, including Legators Ashwell and Korovich. Jackin advises her to be receptive and patient, as they need the support of these commanders. During the meeting, the discussion becomes heated, with some questioning Adequin's leadership and others defending her. The argument escalates, with doppelgängers of the commanders appearing, including a shocking appearance by Griffith, a friend Adequin thought she had lost. After the meeting, Jackin reveals that he has seen Griffith's doppelgänger before, implying that there are possible futures where Griffith is still alive. This revelation leaves Adequin reeling, as she grapples with the possibility that she could have saved him. The chapter ends with Adequin storming out of the CIC, leaving Jackin behind, as she struggles to come to terms with the consequences of her actions and the uncertainty of their situation.
Cavalon and Owen embark on an EVA mission to take manual measurements for the jump drive project, accompanied by Emery and Mesa's remote guidance. After completing their task, they're confronted by a group of anti-royalist soldiers, led by Snyder, who's now affiliated with the Outer Core Refugees (OCR). The situation escalates into a physical altercation, but before things get out of hand, Rake intervenes, having arrived with Warner and the MPs. However, Rake's actions take a dark turn when she threatens to kill Snyder, dragging him towards an escape pod airlock. Cavalon manages to rescue Snyder just in time, but not before Rake's true intentions are revealed, leaving everyone stunned and concerned about her behavior. The chapter ends with Rake storming off, and Cavalon giving chase, trying to understand what drove her to such extreme actions.
Cavalon catches up to Rake after she storms off, and they engage in a physical altercation, with Rake revealing the extent of her injuries from the dark energy generators. Cavalon expresses his concern and guilt over not being able to help her, and Rake opens up about her past and her feelings of failure and grief over the loss of Griffith. Cavalon shares his own experiences with loss and grief, and encourages Rake to take the time to mourn and process her emotions. He also reveals that he has seen "time ripples" of Griffith, and that he believes Rake needs to confront her feelings and find a way to move forward. The conversation takes a turn as Rake begins to open up about her past, and Cavalon asks her to tell him a story about when she first met Griffith, marking a turning point in their conversation and potentially a new level of understanding and connection between them.
Adequin Rake visits the medbay to have her injuries treated by Doctor Ford Kellar, who is concerned about the extent of her injuries and the potential long-term effects of using the Viator neural networks. Meanwhile, Jackin is working to manage the situation with Snyder, who was involved in an altercation with Rake, and is trying to protect Rake's reputation and maintain order on the ship. As the reactor's activation approaches, the crew is on edge, and Rake is struggling to come to terms with her role as leader of the rebellion. She is forced to confront her own demons and the weight of her responsibilities, and must decide how to move forward and lead her crew to safety. The chapter ends with Rake preparing for the dedication ceremony, where she will officially rename the ship and solidify her position as leader, while also grappling with the moral implications of her actions and the consequences of her decisions.
The chapter takes place during a dedication ceremony for the Sentinel's capital ship, where Adequin Rake, the Excubitor, addresses the crowd of soldiers. She speaks about the ship's history, the sacrifices they've made, and the challenges they'll face as they journey inward. Rake opens up about her own personal struggles, including the loss of her crew and her feelings of guilt and failure. She then reveals that the System Collective has been imposing genetic discrimination and oppression, and that the Legion has been replaced by Drudger clones. Rake proposes that the Sentinels make their own path and establish a base of operations to stand up against the tyrants controlling the Core. She gives the soldiers a choice: to stay with the Sentinels or attempt to return to the Core and the Legion. The ceremony concludes with the officers pledging their loyalty to the vessel in a blood oath, and Rake renaming the ship the "Lodestar", symbolizing a new beginning and a look towards the future.
Adequin Rake arrives at the CIC, where Jackin is preparing for their first jump using the newly repaired jump drive. Despite some initial concerns and a longer-than-expected spool time, the jump is successful, and they confirm their arrival coordinates. However, their celebration is short-lived, as they soon discover that the jump drive's photovoltaics bridge has malfunctioned, and they've used up their entire reserve of ceronite, a crucial component for jump drives. Cavalon informs Adequin that they'll need to find more ceronite to repair the drive, and their only option is to embark on a perilous mission to find an abandoned manufacturing plant. Adequin decides to lead the mission, despite Jackin's objections, and they begin assembling a team, including Cavalon, Emery, Murillo, and Puck. With their plan in place, they prepare to set out on their dangerous journey to secure the necessary ceronite and save their ship.
The crew of the Lodestar gathers in the CIC to discuss their plan to acquire ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive. They analyze a 3D map of the Drift Belt, identifying a potential source of ceronite at an abandoned factory on the planet SCR-929-6. The team, including Cavalon, Emery, Murillo, Puck, and Rake, discuss the challenges and risks of the mission, including the need to navigate through Poine Gate, avoid Legion blockades, and potentially hack into the Legion's extranet. They decide to send a strike team to take control of Poine Gate, while the Synthesis acts as a distraction. The crew also begins to prepare for the mission, gathering supplies, checking the ship's systems, and planning for potential contingencies. Rake assigns tasks and sets a departure time for the next day, and the team begins to make final preparations for their perilous journey.
Adequin Rake and her crew aboard the Synthesis prepare to embark on a perilous mission to acquire ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive. As they approach the Poine Gate, they discover it's abandoned, with no signs of life or recent activity. After relaying through the gate, they head towards the planet SCR-929-6, where they plan to find an abandoned factory to obtain the necessary ceronite. However, upon arrival, they're met with an unexpected and ominous discovery: the planet's atmosphere is radiative and uninhabitable, and their survey drones detect no signs of the factory. As they try to come up with a new plan, they're ambushed by a Viator battlecruiser, and in the chaos, Jackin goes missing, and Cavalon suddenly disintegrates into nothingness, leaving Adequin and the rest of the crew stunned and reeling. Adequin's Imprints then surge to life, causing her immense pain, and she begins to experience a strange and terrifying phenomenon, as if she's being torn apart at a molecular level.
Adequin Rake regains consciousness in a holding cell, suffering from systemic pain and finding herself in a precarious situation with Cavalon and the severely injured Jackin. As she tries to tend to Jackin's wound, she realizes they are being held captive by Drudgers, who are demanding information about the crew of the Synthesis. Adequin attempts to deceive them, claiming they purchased the ship legally, but the Drudgers are skeptical. The leader, Aros, uses physical force to intimidate her, and she is eventually injected with a mysterious substance that seems to heal her Imprint-related injuries. As they are led out of the cell, Adequin demands to know where they are being taken and is met with the ominous response that the "sovereign awaits." The group is escorted by a formation of Drudger guards, with Aros at the lead, and Adequin is left wondering what fate has in store for them.
Adequin Rake, Cavalon, and their injured crew member Jackin are held captive by Drudgers on a Viator battlecruiser called the Presidian. However, instead of hostile treatment, they are met with unexpected kindness and respect from the Viator breeder, Kaize. Kaize explains that they have been working to restart ancient alien generators, known as the dilacha carthen, and that Adequin's actions in restarting the generators have been crucial to their success. Kaize provides Adequin with an atlas pyramid, which will serve as a passkey to the Arcullian Gates, and offers to let them keep the curanulta, a powerful device. Adequin is tasked with convincing her crew to dock the Synthesis, their ship, in the Presidian's hangar, so that Jackin can receive medical attention. As Adequin and her crew prepare to leave, Kaize reveals that Jackin has been given Viator Imprints to expedite his healing, and Adequin is grateful for their help. The chapter ends with Adequin and her crew departing the Presidian, with a newfound sense of hope and uncertainty about their future.
The crew of the Synthesis, led by Adequin Rake, has arrived at an Arcullian Gate, a mysterious and ancient Viator technology that could potentially take them to the Core in time to save the Sentinels. As they prepare to use the gate, they discuss the risks and uncertainties of the technology, as well as their plan to acquire a new ship and ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive. Rake sets the route and sends the request, and the ship relays through the gate, experiencing a sensation similar to entering the Divide. On the other side, they find themselves in a new location, with a changed pattern of stars. The crew is shocked and concerned, and they begin to discuss the implications of the gate's technology and how it could be related to the Divide. Rake refocuses the crew on their mission, reminding them that they need to save the Sentinels and that they will have to figure out the physics of the gate later. The ship engages warp, heading towards the Core, and the crew prepares for the challenges ahead.
The chapter delves into Adequin Rake's past, seventeen years prior, as she reports to her first posting at Legion HQ. The scene then shifts to the present, where Rake visits the medbay to check on Jackin's injuries. She has a conversation with Doctor Ford Kellar, who reveals that he was part of Operations Intelligence and has known Jackin for over twenty years. Ford also shares his insights on Jackin's character, suggesting that he doesn't want to talk about his past because he wants to start over. Rake then meets with Jackin, who is recovering from his injuries, and they discuss their leadership roles and the challenges they face. Jackin opens up about his past, revealing that he was part of the Close Protection Division before becoming a high-ranking officer. He also shares that he is officially "dead" and has been living a new life in the Divide. The chapter ends with Rake and Jackin preparing for their upcoming mission, with Jackin receiving a medication to help him cope with his injuries and Rake reflecting on the complexities of their relationship and the secrets they keep from each other.
Adequin Rake and Jackin arrive on the Corsairs' flagship, the Corinthian, in search of ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive. They meet with Akemi, the overseer of the Corsairs, and her team, including Gideon and Phaedra. Jackin's past with the Corsairs is revealed, and it becomes clear that he has a complex history with Akemi. The group discusses their plan to acquire ceronite, and Akemi agrees to help them, but only after Jackin threatens to "come back from the dead" if she doesn't. They decide to raid a Larios Defense facility on Tethys to obtain the ceronite, and Gideon offers them the use of a prototype ship, the Wakeless, which has advanced stealth capabilities. Jackin agrees to stay behind on the Corinthian as collateral for the ship's return, and Adequin will lead the mission with a team of four. The chapter ends with Akemi agreeing to prepare the ship and gather information on the facility, and Adequin looking forward to reviewing the plans in the morning.
Adequin Rake and Jackin meet with Gideon and Akemi on the Corsairs' flagship, where they discuss their plan to acquire ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive. After the meeting, Adequin and Jackin retire to their luxurious living quarters, where Jackin opens up about his past, revealing that he was raised by Akemi's father, Abraham Kashmir, and that he has a complex history with the Corsairs. He explains that he enlisted in the Legion to make a difference and to atone for his family's past, and that he has been keeping his true identity a secret. Meanwhile, the rest of the crew arrives, and they update each other on the new plan, which involves using a stealth ship to raid a Larios Defense facility and obtain the ceronite. As they prepare for the mission, Adequin reflects on the challenges they face and the importance of their goal, and she is reassured by Cavalon's confidence that they will succeed.
The crew of the Wakeless, led by Adequin Rake, prepares to infiltrate a Larios Defense Technologies facility on Tethys to acquire ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive. As they approach the planet, they discover that the facility is on production hold and the whole area is eerily quiet. Upon analyzing the facility's security systems, they find that it's locked down with a biometric authorization requirement, which can only be bypassed by Augustus Cornelius Mercer, Cavalon's grandfather. Cavalon reveals that his grandfather has a secret device, a bioterrorism safeguard, that stores a clean copy of his genetic code, which could grant them access to the facility. However, the device is located in Augustus's bedroom in Mercer Manor, making the mission extremely risky. Despite the dangers, Rake agrees to the plan, and they set a course for Elyseia, ready to face the challenges ahead.
Adequin Rake and Cavalon embark on a perilous mission to infiltrate Mercer Manor, the royal residence of Augustus Mercer, to retrieve a bioterrorism safeguard containing a clean copy of Augustus's genetic code. The device is crucial for their plan to acquire ceronite, a component needed to repair their jump drive. They utilize a stealth ship, the Wakeless, and a secret entrance to the manor that Cavalon had used in the past. As they navigate through the hidden passages, Cavalon's emotions are stirred up by the memories of his past, and Adequin provides him with reassurance and support. They finally reach the entrance to Augustus's residence, and with the codebreaker's help, they prepare to breach the locked door and retrieve the device, knowing that the success of their mission hangs in the balance.
Cavalon and Rake infiltrate Mercer Manor to retrieve a bioterrorism safeguard containing Augustus Mercer's genetic code. They navigate through the opulent halls, avoiding guards and security measures. Upon reaching Augustus's residence, they discover a hidden laboratory filled with genetic engineering equipment. As they explore the lab, they find a room with a one-way mirror, where they see a young boy reading a book. Cavalon becomes frantic as he accesses the lab's computer and discovers logs detailing experiments on human cloning, including a project to clone him. The logs reveal that the boy they saw is one of the clones, and Cavalon realizes that his own genetic code is being used. Just as Rake tries to process this information, the terminal screen closes, and a voice speaks, addressing Cavalon as "grandson," indicating that they have been discovered.
Cavalon and Rake's mission to retrieve a bioterrorism safeguard from Mercer Manor takes a dark turn when they discover a hidden laboratory containing a young boy who is a clone of Cavalon. Augustus Mercer, Cavalon's grandfather, reveals that he has been cloning himself in an attempt to create a worthy successor, and that Cavalon is one of his failed experiments. Cavalon is devastated by this revelation and tries to rescue the clone, but their efforts are thwarted by the laboratory's security measures. Rake promises Cavalon that they will return to rescue the clone when they are better prepared, and they escape the manor as the security alarms sound. However, Rake reveals that they may not need the bioterrorism safeguard after all, implying that Cavalon's own genetic code could be used to gain access to the ceronite they need, leaving Cavalon feeling numb and trapped.
Cavalon and Rake escape from Mercer Manor after discovering the truth about Cavalon's past and his grandfather's cloning experiments. They are met with resistance from Mercer Guards, but Deveraux, a Mercer Guard captain, intervenes and helps them escape. Deveraux reveals that Augustus has replaced the human guards with Drudger Guardians, who are loyal only to him. Rake and Cavalon make their way through the gardens to reach the north wall, where they will be extracted by the Wakeless. Along the way, Cavalon struggles to come to terms with his past and the truth about his family, but Rake's encouragement and support help him to focus on their escape. Despite the danger and uncertainty, Cavalon agrees to work with Rake to escape and make a new start.
Adequin Rake and Cavalon attempt to escape from Mercer Manor after discovering the truth about Cavalon's past and his grandfather's cloning experiments. They make their way through the gardens, avoiding security measures and gunfire from the Mercer Guards and Drudger Guardians. As they near the wall, they are met with a turret and more Guardians, but Owen's timely intervention with a rail repeater helps them escape. However, Adequin is shot in the chest and separated from Cavalon in the chaos. She fights to stay conscious and eventually finds herself surrounded by Guardians. Despite being injured and outnumbered, Adequin orders Emery to engage Phantom protocols and escape with Cavalon, leaving her behind to fend off the Guardians. With her last act, Adequin readies herself for a final stand, armed with a rifle and a plasmic blade, prepared to fight against the overwhelming odds.
Cavalon awakens on the Wakeless, a stealth ship, after being injured during a mission to retrieve a bioterrorism safeguard from Mercer Manor. He soon discovers that his left hand is missing, and he's overcome with guilt and anger upon learning that Adequin Rake was left behind during their escape. Emery and Owen explain that they were forced to leave Rake due to the overwhelming odds against them, but Cavalon is consumed by regret and determination to rescue her. Jackin arrives, and the group discusses their next steps, with Jackin deciding that they should prioritize obtaining ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive, before attempting to rescue Rake. However, Cavalon reveals that they don't need the device they were seeking, implying that he can use his own genetic code to gain access to the ceronite facility. The group proceeds with the mission, using Cavalon's identity to bypass the facility's security measures, and they successfully gain access to the facility.
Adequin Rake awakens in a holding cell, having been captured by Augustus Mercer's forces. She is taken to meet with Augustus, who reveals that he knows her true identity and has been searching for her. Augustus attempts to manipulate Adequin, using her past and his knowledge of her secrets to try and break her. He also reveals his true intentions for his grandson, Cavalon, and his plans for the future of humanity. As their conversation progresses, Adequin becomes increasingly wary of Augustus's words and actions, recognizing his attempts to manipulate her. The meeting is interrupted by an urgent off-world call, and Augustus leaves, ordering the Guardian to sedate Adequin. As the Guardian approaches her, Adequin realizes that her time is running out and that she must find a way to escape if she wants to survive. The chapter ends with Adequin being sedated and losing consciousness, leaving her fate uncertain.
The chapter delves into Adequin Rake's past, showcasing her first meeting with Praetor Reneth Lugen at Legion HQ ten years ago. Lugen assigns her as a liaison, tasking her with serving as his eyes and ears, and she accepts, eager to prove herself. The scene then shifts to the present, where Rake finds herself on Gideon's ship, the Crucius, after being rescued from Augustus Mercer's captivity. As she reunites with her crew, including Cavalon, she senses that something is amiss. Gideon leads her to a communications suite, where she discovers a video recording from Jackin, explaining his past and the reasons behind his actions. Jackin reveals that he was involved in a mission to escort Corinne Mercer, Augustus's daughter, out of the Core, and that this event led to his complicated history with Augustus. He also expresses his regret for not being more open with Rake and apologizes for his behavior. The recording ends with Jackin's message, urging Rake to prioritize the Sentinels' safety and to not attempt a rescue, as Augustus wants to use her as a pretext to enact martial law. Jackin's final words are a plea for Rake to not need him, to move on and make a difference without relying on him.
Adequin Rake is struggling to come to terms with the revelation that Jackin, one of her closest allies, has been captured by Augustus Mercer. She watches a video recording from Jackin, where he explains his past and the reasons behind his actions, and urges her to prioritize the safety of the Sentinels over attempting to rescue him. Adequin is torn between her personal feelings and her duty as a leader, but ultimately decides that she cannot risk the lives of 4,000 Sentinels to rescue one person. She informs her crew that they will proceed with their original plan to take the ceronite back to the Divide, despite their objections and personal feelings. Adequin's decision is driven by a sense of duty and responsibility, and she is determined to see it through, even if it means leaving Jackin behind.
Cavalon is struggling to cope with the aftermath of their mission to retrieve a bioterrorism safeguard from Mercer Manor. He is consumed by guilt, anger, and self-loathing, particularly after discovering that he is a clone of Augustus Mercer. As he tries to come to terms with this revelation, he becomes increasingly agitated and desperate for a way to escape his emotions. He searches for apexidone, a powerful painkiller, in the medbay, but is thwarted by Doctor Ford Kellar, who refuses to give it to him. Cavalon's frustration boils over, and he attacks Ford, but is eventually subdued by Adequin Rake, who appears just in time to prevent further violence. The chapter ends with Cavalon being rendered unconscious, still grappling with the traumatic implications of his discovery.
Adequin Rake sits beside Cavalon's bunk, trying to come to terms with the aftermath of their mission to retrieve a bioterrorism safeguard from Mercer Manor. Cavalon is struggling to cope with the revelation that he is a clone of Augustus Mercer, and Adequin is determined to help him through this difficult time. She shares her own experiences with loss and grief, and encourages Cavalon to confront his emotions and find a way to move forward. Meanwhile, Cavalon reveals that he has discovered a genetic weapon being designed by Augustus, which could potentially target and eliminate individuals with mutated nucleotides. Adequin is horrified by this revelation, and the two discuss the implications of such a weapon and the motivations behind Augustus's actions. As they talk, Adequin decides to bunk on Cavalon's couch to keep an eye on him and prevent him from relapsing into his old habits. Despite the challenges they face, Adequin is determined to help Cavalon and the Sentinels, and to find a way to stop Augustus's sinister plans.
Adequin Rake returns to the Lodestar after a successful mission to acquire ceronite, a crucial component for their jump drive. She is greeted by Puck and Mesa, who are concerned about the crew's well-being due to the lack of food and the effects of the Divide. Adequin meets with her team, including Beckar and Emery, to discuss their plan to escape the Core and head to a safe refuge. They review the ship's system statuses, and Beckar reports that the crew is struggling with reduced rations, but they have made progress on the combat systems projects. Adequin assigns tasks to her team, including coordinating with Legator Ashwell, who will be responsible for navigating the ship through the jump. Puck shares a data chip containing coordinates for a viable refuge, which Jackin had provided before he was captured. Adequin trusts the coordinates and decides to keep the specifics quiet. She and Puck review the jump list and plan to input the coordinates into the system ahead of time. As they work, Adequin is reminded of the importance of taking care of herself and her crew, and she acknowledges the challenges they face in their journey to safety.
The crew of the Lodestar prepares to leave the Divide and head to the Drift Belt through Kharon Gate. As they approach the gate, they are met with an unexpected attack by a Proteus gunship, which is revealed to be crewed by Augustus Mercer's Guardians. The Sentinels scramble to defend themselves, with Adequin Rake taking charge and issuing orders to prepare for jump and defend against the attackers. The Synthesis, crewed by Emery and Ford, manages to break through the attack and dock with the Lodestar, and the crew executes a jump to escape the battle. As they reorient themselves after the jump, Adequin reflects on their situation and the challenges they face, knowing that they must outrun their pursuers and find a way to safety.
The crew of the Lodestar has successfully jumped away from their pursuers, but their relief is short-lived as they realize that another ship, the Callisto, has somehow waylaid them and taken control of their transit systems. The captain of the Callisto, Levi Kaplan, demands to speak with Adequin's "progenitor," a term that Adequin doesn't understand. Adequin tries to negotiate with Kaplan, but the conversation is tense and unproductive. With hostiles incoming, Adequin threatens to abandon the conversation and prepares to defend her ship. However, Kaplan decides to dock and meet with Adequin in person, and Adequin agrees to meet with her, assembling a team of armed guards to accompany her to the docking bay. As Adequin leaves the CIC, she puts Beckar in command and orders him to jump the ship as soon as possible, while she goes to confront Kaplan and find out what she wants.
Adequin Rake meets with Captain Levi Kaplan of the Callisto, who has waylaid the Lodestar. Kaplan demands to speak with Rake's "progenitor," which Rake eventually discovers refers to Jackin North. Rake reveals that Jackin is alive but not present, and Kaplan explains that she is part of a group that has been searching for Rake's crew. Kaplan mentions that her boss, implied to be Praetor Reneth Lugen, will be pleased to know that they have found Rake. As they discuss their situation, Rake learns that Kaplan's group has discovered a faster jump route through the Rotellan Traverse, but they need to shake off the Drudger army pursuing them first. Rake comes up with an idea to use the star on board the Lodestar to their advantage, potentially changing the course of their escape.
Cavalon is working in the engine room, trying to sync the duty cycles of the intake manifolds to improve the ship's performance. However, he is interrupted by Adequin Rake, who reveals that they are being pursued by a flagship and starfighters, and that their power reserves will be depleted in 35 jumps. Rake proposes a plan to destroy the ship to prevent their pursuers from following them, and asks Cavalon to find a way to make the reactor unstable and cause a supernova. Cavalon agrees to work on the plan, and he and Mesa start brainstorming ways to trigger a thermal runaway in the reactor. They discuss various options, including turning off the cryostat or exploiting the dark energy generators, but Mesa expresses concerns about the feasibility of these plans. Cavalon becomes determined to find a solution, using his knowledge of the ship's design and his own obsessive brain to come up with a plan. He proposes creating more mass to trigger the thermal runaway, and Mesa starts to understand his idea.
Adequin Rake and her crew are preparing for their final escape from their pursuers, with a plan to destroy their ship and create a supernova to prevent their enemies from following them. The crew is spread thin, with only a few members left on the command deck, and they are working to evacuate the remaining personnel and equipment. Adequin assigns tasks to her team, including Puck and Ashwell, who will attend to the final wave of escape ships, while she and Beckar will stay behind to ensure the ship's destruction. With time running out, Adequin checks on the remaining escape ships and then heads to the reactor bay to meet with Cavalon, who is working to make the reactor unstable and trigger the supernova. The tension is high as they work to execute their plan and escape their pursuers.
Cavalon and Mesa work on the ship's reactor, trying to make it unstable to create a supernova and destroy their pursuers. However, Cavalon's plan is to stay behind and trigger the explosion manually, sacrificing himself. When Rake arrives, she discovers Cavalon's intention and confronts him. Despite his attempts to convince her to leave him behind, Rake is determined to stop him and save his life. She uses her Imprints to overpower him and tries to drag him away, but Cavalon manages to break free using his own Imprints. The two engage in a fierce fight, with Rake eventually gaining the upper hand and knocking Cavalon to the ground. As she stands over him, ready to deliver the final blow, she declares that she will not let the universe take anyone else from her.
Adequin Rake carries Cavalon's unconscious body onto the Callisto, where Captain Levi Kaplan is waiting. After a brief exchange, Kaplan leaves to run preflight checks, and Beckar arrives with the atlas pyramid. Adequin secures Jackin's dog tags and her own around Cavalon's neck and asks Beckar to convey a message to him when he wakes up. She requests that Cavalon bury her and Griffith's tags on Myrdin during a thunderstorm when it's safe to do so. Beckar objects to Adequin's plan, but she insists that she must see it through. The two share a moment of gratitude and respect before Adequin departs, sealing the bay door and initiating the jump sequence. As the Callisto escapes, Adequin watches from the hangar, ensuring their safe departure before heading back to the reactor bay to complete her mission.
Cavalon awakens on the Callisto, a ship that has escaped from their pursuers, and finds himself cuffed and lying on a crash bench. He is met with the anxious Optio Beckar and Captain Levi Kaplan, who is piloting the ship. As Cavalon struggles to come to terms with what has happened, he remembers Adequin Rake's sacrifice and realizes that she has given him her dog tags. Desperate to save her, Cavalon begs Beckar to uncuff him, and after a moment of hesitation, Beckar complies. With his cuffs removed, Cavalon rushes to the dash, determined to find a way to rescue Rake, despite the odds against them.
Adequin Rake prepares to sacrifice herself to destroy the Lodestar and prevent their pursuers from following them. She puts on a space suit and makes her way to the reactor, where she accesses the ship's primary systems and begins to make the necessary changes to trigger a supernova. Despite the warnings and alarms, Adequin perseveres, driven by her determination to protect the Sentinels and prevent further harm. As she works, she reflects on her past and the losses she has suffered, including the death of her crew and friends. With the Guardian's ship closing in, Adequin initiates the final sequence, and the reactor begins to overload. The chapter ends with Adequin surrounded by an intense, blinding light as the ship is consumed by the impending explosion.
Adequin Rake finds herself on the _Presidian_, a Viator battlecruiser, after being rescued by Kaize, a Viator breeder. Kaize explains that they received a call for help from Cavalon, Adequin's aide, and used an "obscation" to arrive quickly. Adequin is confused and disoriented, and Kaize reveals that they have been working to repair dark energy generators and are aware of the impending war between humans. Kaize shares their people's history, including their origins from a galaxy that was destroyed by the collapsing universe, and their efforts to flee and find a new home. They also warn Adequin that the Divide is approaching from multiple directions and that their galaxy is the "levalaine," a refuge for capable species fleeing the collapse. Kaize urges Adequin to find equilibrium among her people and prepares to depart, leaving Adequin to process the overwhelming information and her own situation.
The crew of the Callisto, led by Captain Levi Kaplan, arrives at the secret planet of Akhet, a refuge for those fleeing the Core. Adequin Rake, who had been left behind to destroy the Lodestar, is surprisingly rescued by the Viators and reunited with Cavalon. As they land on the planet, they are met with a mixture of emotions, from relief to confusion. The group is taken to a medical tent, where Rake is treated for her injuries, and then to the stronghold, a Cathian command post. Cavalon is stunned to encounter his grandmother, Corinne Mercer, who had abandoned him and his father. Despite initial hesitation, Cavalon accepts her embrace and apology, putting aside his anger and embracing the warmth of their reunion. The chapter ends with a sense of hope and new beginnings, as the characters look to the future and the possibilities that Akhet may hold.
Adequin Rake, still reeling from her recent experiences, engages in a holographic conversation with Praetor Reneth Lugen, who reveals that he had assigned her to the Divide to protect her and to unite the Sentinels, a potential army, under her leadership. Lugen explains that his plan was to use the Sentinels to further his own goals in the galactic cold war, and that he is proud of Adequin for taking the initiative to unite them. He also shares his regret over the loss of Jackin North and his admiration for Adequin's ability to inspire loyalty in others. As their conversation comes to a close, Lugen reveals that he will likely not survive the upcoming events and asks Adequin to take on a leadership role, using the information she obtained from Mercer Manor to prepare for the challenges ahead. Adequin agrees to take on this responsibility, despite the weight of the task and the risks involved.
Cavalon and Adequin Rake sit on a hill overlooking the Akhet stronghold, reflecting on their recent experiences and the challenges ahead. Rake shares her true identity, Idra Le Calvez, and opens up about her past and her feelings of being trapped by her former identity. She encourages Cavalon to accept his own true identity and use it to fuel his purpose, rather than letting it drag him down. They discuss their plans to take down Augustus Mercer and rescue Jackin, with Cavalon expressing his desire to be the one to kill Augustus. Rake agrees, and they share a moment of determination and solidarity. As they sit together, they watch the storm approaching, symbolizing the turmoil and challenges that lie ahead.