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The story follows Darrow, a young Red man who lives on Mars and toils in the depths of the planet to extract valuable helium-3. Darrow's life is one of hardship and oppression, as the ruling class of Golds exploits and enslaves the lower-colored classes. When Darrow's wife, Eo, is executed for singing a forbidden song, he is consumed by rage and a desire for revenge. Darrow is recruited by a group of rebels known as the Sons of Ares, who seek to overthrow the Golds and create a more equal society. Darrow undergoes a transformation, known as the "carving," which alters his physical appearance and allows him to infiltrate Gold society. He becomes a student at the Institute, a prestigious academy where young Golds are trained to become leaders. Darrow quickly rises through the ranks, earning the respect and admiration of his peers, while secretly working to undermine the Golds from within. As Darrow navigates the complex web of alliances and rivalries within the Gold society, he must confront his own demons and make difficult choices to achieve his goal of bringing down the oppressive regime. Along the way, he forms alliances with other characters, including Sevro, a skilled warrior, and Mustang, a Gold who becomes a key player in Darrow's quest for revenge. The story is a gripping and action-packed tale of rebellion, loyalty, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a dystopian future where social hierarchy is determined by the color of one's skin. Throughout the book, Darrow faces numerous challenges and setbacks, including battles with rival Golds, encounters with powerful and ruthless leaders, and struggles with his own identity and purpose. Ultimately, Darrow's journey is one of transformation and growth, as he evolves from a lowly Red into a powerful and charismatic leader, determined to create a better future for himself and those he cares about.
The scene is set on a mountain floating over the world, where a man is walking with his captor, Augustus, amidst a backdrop of chaos and greed as powerful families gather to claim the best and brightest. The man, Darrow, is reminded of his past and the tragedy that befell his wife, and he is driven by a desire for revenge against those who have oppressed his people for centuries. As he prepares to leave with Augustus, he is met with a mixture of hostility and curiosity, particularly from Augustus's family, including his daughter, who unexpectedly takes Darrow's hand, adding a layer of complexity to his emotions and intentions.
Darrow, now a skilled warrior and leader, commands a fleet of warships in a battle against his enemy, Karnus au Bellona. As he navigates through the dangers of space, he is driven by his desire to win and earn a fleet to use against the oppressive Society. His crew, including Roque, Victra, and Tactus, each bring their unique skills and personalities to the battle. Despite the risks, Darrow is determined to defeat Karnus and claim victory, using the phrase "Hic sunt leones" - Here be lions - as a rallying cry. The battle is intense, with Darrow using his strategic thinking and combat skills to outmaneuver his opponent. As the fight reaches its climax, Darrow's focus is unwavering, driven by his ultimate goal of bringing down the Society and fulfilling his promise to the Red girl who inspired him.
Darrow emerges victorious in a wargame against Karnus au Bellona, but his celebration is short-lived as a surprise attack from a supposedly defeated ship destroys his own. With his command escape pod gone, Darrow must navigate the chaos to find another way to escape, taking his injured valet Theodora with him. Along the way, he is forced to make difficult decisions, including leaving behind crew members and confronting a rebellious Gray who is shot by the sergeant. Darrow and a few others manage to escape in a pod, but not without witnessing the devastating destruction of their ship and the loss of hundreds of lives. Consumed by anger and a desire for vengeance, Darrow plans to launch himself at Karnus's ship in a mechanized suit, but his attempt is thwarted by the Proctors, who override his controls.
Darrow, still reeling from his defeat in the war game, is met with hostility and indifference upon his return to the Academy. He is haunted by the loss of lives and struggles to come to terms with his own emotions. As he tries to find solace in the Academy's garden, he is confronted by Karnus and his cousins, all members of House Bellona. Despite being outnumbered and outmatched, Darrow refuses to back down, but he is brutally beaten and humiliated by the Bellona clan. Karnus and his cousins make it clear that they will not kill Darrow, but instead will break his spirit and pride, leaving him a shattered and broken man. The beating is a brutal reminder of the harsh realities of the Society and the true nature of the Golds, who will stop at nothing to maintain their power and dominance.
Darrow stands before ArchGovernor Augustus, who has lost faith in him due to his recent defeat and the embarrassment it brought to House Augustus. Augustus announces that he will be selling Darrow's contract to another house, citing his failure to act in a manner befitting a lancer of House Augustus. Darrow is given three days' notice and will accompany Augustus to the Summit on Luna, but will no longer represent House Augustus. Pliny, the Politico, reveals that Darrow's services will be traded at auction, and he will no longer be protected by House Augustus. Darrow argues that this decision will put him in danger, as the Bellona will hunt him down and kill him. Augustus remains unmoved, citing Darrow's lack of substance and the cost of protecting him. The conversation highlights the ruthless and calculating nature of the Golds, as well as Darrow's own pride and determination to prove himself.
Darrow's fate hangs in the balance as he is forced to come to terms with being abandoned by ArchGovernor Augustus. With his contract set to end, he has only three days to prove his worth to other potential buyers at the Summit on Luna. The looming threat of Julia au Bellona's vengeance and the price on his head weigh heavily on his mind. As he navigates the complex web of alliances and rivalries, Darrow is reminded of his past conversations with Mustang, who had urged him to choose a different path. With the support of Roque, Darrow tries to stay focused and prepare for the challenges ahead, but the loneliness and fear of being a commodity in the Golden society continue to gnaw at him. As the shuttle approaches Luna, Darrow steels himself for the uncertainties that lie ahead, determined to rise above his current circumstances and prove his value to a new house.
Darrow arrives on Luna with ArchGovernor Augustus and his household, where he is met with hostility and indifference. As he navigates the complex web of alliances and rivalries, he is forced to come to terms with his abandonment by Augustus and the looming threat of Julia au Bellona's vengeance. Darrow meets with Victra, who offers him a way out of his desperate situation, suggesting he meet with someone at a tavern off Citadel grounds. Despite the risks, Darrow agrees to go, and they depart in a shuttle with a team of skilled and deadly Grays, known as lurchers, who have been tasked with protecting him. As they prepare to leave, Darrow is aware of the dangers that await him, including the possibility of being caught by Pliny or the Bellona, and the presence of third parties who may see him as an opportunity. The lurchers, led by Valentin, assure him they have prepared for all eventualities and have a secure route planned.
Darrow, disguised as an Obsidian, meets with the Jackal, aka Adrius, in a seedy tavern on Luna, accompanied by Victra and a team of skilled Grays. The Jackal, who has been in exile, reveals that he has been acquiring a significant portion of the communications industry and plans to use this influence to shape the narrative and gain power. He explains that Pliny, a mutual enemy, has been controlling his father's favor and has been working to undermine him. The Jackal proposes an alliance with Darrow to take down Pliny and gain his father's favor back, by helping a restless crime syndicate in Lost City, which is secretly backed by the Sovereign, Octavia au Lune. The Jackal's ultimate goal is to use this alliance to eliminate Ares and his Sons, a menace to the Society, and in return, he wants Darrow's help to achieve his objectives.
Darrow meets with the Jackal, aka Adrius, in a tavern on Luna, where they discuss a potential alliance to take down their mutual enemies and gain power. The Jackal reveals his plan to use Darrow as a figurehead to eliminate the Sons of Ares, a terrorist group, and gain favor with the Sovereign. Darrow agrees to work with the Jackal, but expresses his distrust and intention to potentially kill him in the future. The Jackal tasks Darrow with killing a Gold named Fencor au Drusilla, who has discovered the Jackal's dealings with crime syndicates. Just as the meeting concludes, a woman named Evey arrives, revealing herself to be a member of a syndicate and an acquaintance of Darrow's from his past. However, it is soon discovered that Evey is actually working with the Sons of Ares and has planted a bomb to kill the Jackal. Darrow intervenes, using his gravBoots to rush back to the Jackal's table and potentially save him from the explosion. The chapter ends with the Jackal's table being destroyed by the bomb, and the Stained, a powerful warrior, attempting to shield the Jackal from the blast.
Darrow, disguised as an Obsidian, meets with Evey and Mickey in a secret laboratory on Luna, where he discovers that Evey has been working with the Sons of Ares, a terrorist group, and has just carried out a bombing that killed over a hundred people. Darrow is horrified and confronts Evey about her actions, but she justifies them as necessary to hurt the Golds and make them fear pain. Harmony, the leader of the group, reveals that Dancer, the founder of the Sons of Ares, is dead and that they have been planning a large-scale attack on the Golds. Ares, the mysterious leader of the Sons, has a plan to bomb the Golds' gathering at the Summit, and Harmony wants Darrow to carry out the attack. However, Darrow refuses, citing his desire to undermine the Golds' Society rather than simply hurting them. Harmony then reveals a shocking truth about Darrow's past, showing him a raw footage of his wife Eo's hanging, where it is revealed that Eo was pregnant with their child at the time of her death, a secret that was kept from Darrow to protect him from the pain of knowing.
Darrow is consumed by grief and anger after learning about his wife Eo's pregnancy and the loss of their unborn child. He becomes withdrawn and isolated, pushing away his friends, including Roque. Despite this, Roque remains loyal and tries to reach out to Darrow, who eventually opens up to him about his feelings of loss and guilt. Roque shares a story about two pigeons who find their way back to each other, symbolizing the idea that home is where one finds light in darkness. However, Darrow's emotions are too overwhelming, and he makes a drastic decision to protect Roque from the impending danger at the gala by rendering him unconscious with a syringe, ensuring his safety but also betraying his trust. This act sets in motion a chain of events that will have far-reaching consequences for Darrow and those around him.
Darrow attends a gala on Luna, where he is forced to navigate the complexities of Gold society and confront his own emotions. He is met with hostility and indifference, but also encounters familiar faces, including Antonia and Karnus. The gala is a backdrop for Darrow's internal struggle, as he grapples with his desire for revenge against the Golds and his loyalty to the rebellion. However, when he sees Mustang, the girl he cares for, with his enemy Cassius, Darrow's emotions reach a boiling point. In a moment of crisis, he considers carrying out a plan to kill thousands of Golds, but ultimately decides against it, realizing that it would not bring about the change he desires. Instead, he chooses to pursue a different path, one that could lead to civil war among the Golds, and ultimately, a better future for the people he cares about.
Darrow crashes a gala on Luna, seeking to confront Cassius au Bellona and settle a score. He publicly challenges Cassius, accusing him of dishonorable behavior and demanding satisfaction. The Sovereign intervenes, altering the rules of the duel to allow for yielding, but Darrow refuses to back down. With his skills honed by Lorn au Arcos, Darrow gains the upper hand and severely injures Cassius. As the duel concludes, the gathering erupts into chaos, with various Gold families clashing. Darrow fights to protect his allies, including Tactus and Mustang, and ultimately helps to extract Augustus to safety. Leto, Augustus's ward, is fatally stabbed by the Jackal, who reveals his true intentions. The Jackal and Darrow share a moment, hinting at a secret alliance and the true extent of the Jackal's plans. The chaos and violence mark a turning point, as the fragile peace among the Gold families begins to unravel, and the stage is set for a larger conflict.
Darrow and his allies flee the gala on Luna, pursued by various Gold families seeking to eliminate them. Along the way, they witness the brutal slaughter of a family by a group of young Golds from House Falthe. Darrow's group eventually reaches the stone halls, where they find that their ships have been recalled, leaving them stranded. The Sovereign's Obsidian Praetorians and a Gold knight-captain, Fitchner, arrive to take Augustus into custody. Fitchner, now an Olympic Knight, reveals that he has been appointed to defend the Society's Compact and is no longer loyal to his home planet of Mars. He stun-fists Augustus and the Jackal, and orders Darrow to come with him, while allowing the Telemanuses to return to their villa. Darrow agrees to go with Fitchner, but only after receiving assurance that his friends will not be harmed. The scene ends with Darrow being taken into custody, while his allies are left to wonder about their fate and the true intentions of the Sovereign.
Darrow is brought before the Sovereign, Octavia au Lune, where he is met with a mixture of curiosity and hostility. The Sovereign, a powerful and calculating leader, reveals that she has been watching Darrow and is impressed by his skills and determination. She offers him a place among her legions and a chance to become an Olympic Knight, but Darrow refuses, citing his loyalty to his own house and his desire to honor the laws of the Society. The Sovereign, however, is not one to be denied, and she reveals that she will stop at nothing to achieve her goals, including using her powerful warriors, the Stained, to eliminate any opposition. Darrow, realizing the danger he is in, must use all his wits and cunning to navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries within the Society, and to stay one step ahead of the Sovereign's plans. The chapter ends with the Sovereign proposing a game of truth and trust, where the stakes are high and the outcome is far from certain.
Darrow is forced to play a game of truth with the Sovereign, where he must answer her questions honestly or face the consequences. The game is facilitated by a device called an Oracle, which can detect lies through changes in the player's physiology. Darrow navigates the game carefully, trying not to reveal too much about his past or his true intentions. The Sovereign asks him a series of questions, including ones about his relationships with other characters and his knowledge of the Society's inner workings. Darrow also gets to ask the Sovereign questions, and he tries to gather information about her plans and motivations. Meanwhile, Mustang arrives and provides an update on the aftermath of the gala, where Cassius was injured and several families were attacked. The Sovereign's true intentions are still unclear, but it becomes apparent that she had a plan in motion before the gala. The game of truth ends with the Sovereign being asked if she planned to allow the Bellona to assassinate Augustus, and she lies, which is detected by the Oracle.
The Sovereign, Octavia au Lune, reveals her plan to eliminate Augustus, Mustang's father, in order to maintain control and stability in the Society. She believes that Augustus's actions have allowed the Sons of Ares to spread and that his removal will help to quell the rebellion. Mustang is torn between her loyalty to her family and her allegiance to the Sovereign, but ultimately seems to accept the decision to have her father killed. The scene is interspersed with images of violence and chaos on Venus, which the Sovereign uses to illustrate the gravity of the situation and the need for drastic action. Darrow observes the exchange, feeling a sense of sadness and concern for Mustang, who is being forced to confront the harsh realities of the Society and the consequences of her choices. The Sovereign's true intentions and motivations are still unclear, but it is evident that she will stop at nothing to maintain her power and control over the Society.
Darrow is given new quarters and a substantial stipend to choose his attendants, but he is aware that this is a price for betraying his friends. He is visited by a Pink, but his thoughts are consumed by Mustang and his past. Just as he is feeling trapped, the power goes out, and Sevro, along with eight other Howlers, arrives, having been brought by Mustang as an insurance policy. Sevro and his team have come to rescue Darrow and join him in his quest for war and spoils. They reveal that Mustang is fetching a ship, and it's up to Darrow to figure out the rest of the plan. As they prepare to leave, Darrow discovers that Sevro has brought a mysterious package, which he reveals with a mischievous smile, leaving Darrow stunned and questioning Sevro's sanity.
Darrow and his team of Howlers, disguised and equipped with advanced armor, infiltrate the villa of House Augustus on Luna to rescue their friends and allies from the clutches of the Sovereign's forces. They navigate through the complex, avoiding detection and taking out Praetorian Grays and Bellona Obsidians. Darrow uses his reputation as a killer to leverage a deal with Aja, the leader of the Sovereign's forces, to spare the lives of his friends in exchange for the safe passage of the Sovereign's grandson, Lysander, who is being held hostage. As the rescue mission unfolds, Darrow's team successfully extracts the survivors, including Augustus, Victra, Roque, and Theodora, and they make their escape aboard a waiting ship. However, just as they are about to leave, Aja attacks and brutally injures Quinn, leaving Darrow and his team reeling. The Sovereign, speaking through Aja, warns Darrow that her legions will pursue him and that he has only one bargaining chip, Lysander, to ensure his safe passage.
Darrow and his allies escape from the Sovereign's forces on Luna, but not without Quinn being severely injured by Aja. The Jackal, who had been helping Darrow, uses his medical skills to try and save Quinn's life. As they flee, Tactus, who had been acting strangely, reveals his true intentions by opening the cargo bay door and jumping out with Lysander, the Sovereign's grandson, who was being held hostage. Darrow, Sevro, and Victra give chase but are too late to stop Tactus, who uses gravBoots to escape. With only two minutes before the Sovereign's boarding parties arrive, Darrow and his team must come up with a new plan to save themselves and Quinn, who is still fighting for her life.
Darrow and his allies are on the run from the Sovereign's forces after Tactus betrays them and escapes with Lysander, the Sovereign's grandson. With no clear escape route, Darrow comes up with a desperate plan to launch himself and Sevro in starShells towards the deadliest ship in orbit, the Vanguard. Despite the overwhelming odds against them, Darrow hopes to use the element of surprise to their advantage. As they prepare to launch, Darrow reflects on his past and the lessons he learned from his father, and he steels himself for the impending danger. The launch is a success, and Darrow and Sevro are shot out of the ship at high speed, heading straight for the Vanguard's bridge. Darrow's plan is to smash into the bridge and catch the Golds off guard, giving them a chance to take control of the ship. The outcome is far from certain, but Darrow is determined to see his plan through, driven by his desire to protect his friends and bring down the Society.
Darrow and Sevro, still in their starShell suits, crash onto the bridge of the Vanguard, causing chaos and destruction. Darrow takes control of the bridge, using his charisma and strategic thinking to rally the Blues and other lowColors against the Golds and Obsidians who are trying to retake the ship. He offers them a choice: join him and overthrow their Gold commanders, or face certain death when the Sovereign's forces arrive to reclaim the ship. The Blues, inspired by Darrow's words, begin to rise up against their Gold overlords, and Sevro uses a hidden console to unlock the ship's armories, allowing them to arm themselves. As the Golds and Obsidians try to break into the bridge, a massive and terrifying Stained, Ragnar Volarus, appears and slaughters the enemy squad, then offers his allegiance to Darrow, who accepts, sealing their bond with a ritualistic exchange of blood and a promise of loyalty. Darrow tasks Ragnar with saving his friends on the stork in hangar bay three, and Ragnar sets off with a fierce war chant, filling the halls with dread and Darrow with a mix of fear and excitement.
Darrow, having taken control of one of the Sovereign's flagships, appoints a Blue named Orion as the new captain, tasking her with navigating the ship to safety. As they escape the Sovereign's armada, Darrow broadcasts a message to the Society, revealing the Sovereign's attempt to kill him and his allies, and calling for resistance against her tyrannical rule. The ship suffers damage, but Orion's skills and the crew's efforts allow them to fend off the enemy and make their way to the safety of their fleet beyond the Rubicon Beacons. However, the victory is bittersweet, as they suffer losses, including the death of Quinn, a close friend. Darrow is left to grapple with the consequences of his actions and the weight of his responsibilities, but finds comfort in the presence of Mustang, who reminds him that Sevro needs him.
Darrow finds Sevro in a communal washroom, where they have a heartfelt conversation about their past and their relationships. Sevro reveals that he has known about Darrow's true identity since the Institute and has been working with Ares, the leader of the Sons of Ares. Ares sends a message through a whisperGem, confirming his support for Darrow's mission and revealing that Harmony has betrayed him. Sevro commits to helping Darrow, and they share a moment of trust and understanding. Later, Darrow meets with Victra, who is complex and multifaceted, showing vulnerability and kindness beneath her scheming exterior. They reintroduce themselves to each other, shedding their armor and pretenses. Darrow is unable to sleep, haunted by the memories of those he has lost, and wanders the ship, eventually finding Mustang in the mess hall, where they share a quiet moment together.
Darrow has a quiet moment with Mustang in the mess hall, where they share a meal and conversation. Mustang opens up about her past and her feelings, revealing that she manipulated Cassius into a relationship to protect her family. She also shares her fears and vulnerabilities, and Darrow is touched by her words. Meanwhile, the Jackal appears in Darrow's suite, and they discuss their alliance and strategy in the face of their enemies. The Jackal agrees to maintain social distance from Darrow to avoid arousing suspicion, and they begin to make plans to spread the war and gain power. Darrow also learns that the Jackal has a network of spies and ships at his disposal, which could be useful in their quest for dominance.
Darrow attends a war council with ArchGovernor Augustus and his Praetors, where they discuss their current situation and the possibility of surrendering to the Sovereign. Darrow argues that running and hiding will only lead to their downfall, and instead proposes a bold plan to steal the ships from the Galilean moons, including a powerful moonBreaker commissioned by the Sovereign. The plan is met with skepticism and outrage by some, but Darrow believes it is the only way to show their power and impress the Galilean families, who are hesitant to join their cause due to their dependence on commerce with the Core. Augustus asks Darrow to explain his plan in more detail, and Darrow reveals that he has obtained reliable information about the ships and their locations through his sources. The chapter ends with Darrow's plan being considered, and the fate of their rebellion hanging in the balance.
Darrow presents his plan to steal a powerful moonBreaker and kidnap students from various Institutes to use as leverage against the Sovereign. The plan is met with skepticism and outrage by some, but Augustus ultimately decides to move forward with it. Mustang defends Darrow's plan and her own honor after being insulted by Pliny, and Augustus tasks her with executing the second part of the plan. After the meeting, Augustus speaks with Darrow privately, warning him not to appear political or to seem like a Reformer, and asking if he can trust Darrow with autonomous power. Darrow assures Augustus that he can be trusted, and Augustus reveals that he wants Darrow to approach Lorn, a powerful and skilled warrior, to ask for his help in their war against the Sovereign. Augustus believes that Lorn's love for Darrow, who reminds him of his deceased sons, can be used to convince him to join their cause.
Darrow meets with the Telemanus family, including Kavax and Daxo, who offer their support and allegiance to his cause. They discuss their shared enemies and the Telemanuses agree to lend their aid to Darrow's mission. Kavax, in particular, is enthusiastic and believes that his fox, Sophocles, has given Darrow a propitious sign of approval. Darrow also meets with Roque, who is still hurt and angry about being drugged and left behind during the gala. Roque expresses his feelings of betrayal and hurt, and Darrow apologizes and acknowledges that he was wrong to make choices for Roque without his consent. The chapter ends with Darrow setting a course for Europa and preparing for the next stage of his plan, while also trying to repair his relationship with Roque.
Darrow visits Lorn au Arcos, a former Rage Knight, on the ocean world of Europa, seeking his help in the war against the Sovereign. Lorn, who has lived a long and tumultuous life, is hesitant to get involved, citing the futility of war and the danger it poses to his family. However, Darrow reveals that he has discovered Lorn's past and the reasons behind his withdrawal from the Society, including his involvement in the downfall of House Cylus and his complicated relationship with Nero, Darrow's master. As they speak, Lorn's pet griffin, Icarus, is introduced, and Darrow learns that a Praetorian death squad, led by Aja au Grimmus, is waiting to capture him. Lorn offers to help Darrow escape using Icarus, but Darrow refuses, instead revealing his plan to force Lorn to join him in the war. The chapter ends with Darrow's razor uncoiling, and Lorn's face draining of blood as he realizes what is about to happen.
Darrow sets a trap for the Sovereign's forces, led by Aja, on the planet Europa, where he has come to convince Lorn au Arcos to join his cause. As the ambush unfolds, Darrow's secondary force attacks the Sovereign's ships, and his Howlers, a group of skilled warriors, emerge from the sea to finish off the remaining Praetorians. However, Tactus, a former ally turned traitor, is found in a hidden room with a group of children, intending to kill them as part of the Sovereign's orders. Darrow convinces Tactus to spare the children and return to his side, offering him forgiveness and a chance to lead a legion when they take Mars. Tactus accepts, but his redemption is short-lived, as Lorn au Arcos kills him in revenge for his betrayal. As Tactus dies in Darrow's arms, he finds a sense of peace, and Darrow is left to grapple with the consequences of his actions and the weight of his responsibilities.
Darrow is on the command deck of the Pax, watching his ships cross through space, when he is approached by Kavax and Daxo, who discuss the spoils of their recent victory and negotiate a percentage of the captured ships. Meanwhile, Ragnar, a Stained warrior, is praised for his leadership in taking command of a boarding party and defeating a group of Peerless blade dancers. Darrow contemplates the possibility of Ragnar leading without a Gold, but Kavax and Daxo are hesitant. Later, Darrow speaks with Orion, the Blue captain, who shares her background and insights on the world, and they discuss the complexities of power and morality. The chapter ends with the arrival of an assault shuttle carrying Virginia au Augustus, setting the stage for a new development in the story.
Mustang arrives at the hangar, flanked by Obsidian bodyguards and lurcher mercenaries, and informs Darrow that her father, Augustus, has been captured and a coup has begun. Pliny, a key player in the coup, had approached her with a proposal of marriage and legitimacy, but she refused and escaped. Darrow and his allies discuss the situation and decide to put Pliny's ship out of the airlock, suspecting it may be tracked or contain a bomb. An Orange, Cyther, suggests an alternative plan to use the ship as a decoy to mislead Pliny's forces. Darrow agrees and promises Cyther a reward if the plan is successful. As they head to the warroom to discuss further, Sevro collects Pliny's eyeball, which Mustang had removed, and adds it to his collection. The group prepares for an impending battle, with Orion taking command of the fleet and the Telemanuses being summoned to join the discussion.
Darrow visits Tactus's body in the ship's medBay, where he finds Roque sitting beside him. Roque is still hurt and angry about being drugged and left behind during the gala, and he expresses his feelings of betrayal and hurt to Darrow. Meanwhile, Mustang explains the situation with her father's mission and the coup that has begun, revealing that Pliny has dispatched a lurcher squad of Grays to disable the defensive platforms and that her father has been captured. The council discusses the situation and debates what to do with Victra, with some members questioning her loyalty due to her family's reputation. However, Roque defends Victra, pointing out that she has remained steadfast to Darrow since the Academy and that her family's actions do not define her. Darrow ultimately decides to trust Victra, stating that they choose their friends and that Victra chose him. The council then focuses on the task at hand, discussing plans to rescue Mustang's father and take back their fleet. Darrow suggests that they take back their fleet and then take back Mars, and the group begins to brainstorm ideas for their next move.
Darrow has a dream about his past and wakes up to find Mustang at his door. She has come to his quarters, bringing food and seeking comfort, but their conversation is strained. They discuss their plans and the history of the Gold society, but underlying tensions and unspoken feelings between them threaten to boil over. Mustang confronts Darrow about his hypocrisy in advocating for people to choose their own destinies while limiting himself to being a warrior. She also probes him about his past and his motivations, sensing that there is more to him than he lets on. Darrow is forced to confront the fact that he is pushing Mustang away, even as he is drawn to her. In the end, Mustang asks Darrow to ask her to stay, but he is unable to do so, fearing that his secrets and lies will ultimately drive her away.
Darrow and his allies, including Lorn, Mustang, and Ragnar, are on a mission to infiltrate Pliny's fleet and gather support from other Gold families. They hide in a cargo ship carrying foodstuffs to Hildas Station, where they plan to meet with potential allies. Meanwhile, Darrow has a heart-to-heart conversation with Ragnar, a Stained Obsidian, in which he tries to free Ragnar from his bondage and encourage him to think for himself. Darrow reveals to Ragnar that he was not born to serve the Golds and that there was a time before the Golds when men were free. He shares his own story of loss and redemption, and tells Ragnar that he has a choice to make: to continue serving the Golds or to rise up and be free. Darrow leaves Ragnar to ponder his decision, giving him the freedom to choose his own path.
Darrow and his allies, disguised as a cargo ship crew, infiltrate Pliny's flagship, the Invictus, with the goal of rescuing Mustang's father and taking control of the ship. They successfully navigate the hangar and make their way to the brig, where they free the Jackal and other prisoners. The group then heads to the lowColor galley, where they use a thermal drill to breach the command room below. Darrow emerges from the drill, surrounded by his allies, and confronts Pliny, who is revealed to be a traitor to ArchGovernor Augustus. Pliny is killed by one of his own allies, and Darrow delivers a speech, emphasizing the importance of trust and loyalty, and announces his intention to sail to Mars and call for an Iron Rain. The chapter ends with Darrow and his allies gaining control of the ship and its crew, who are eager to follow the Reaper.
Darrow, now known as the Reaper, prepares for an invasion of Mars, gathering a massive armada of ships and warriors, including Golds, Grays, and Obsidians. He delivers a rousing speech to his troops, emphasizing the importance of taking the planet and weakening the Golds, while also protecting the lowColors and avoiding unnecessary destruction. Darrow's plan is to take the capital city of Agea, which will give him control over the rest of the planet. His allies, including Lorn, Mustang, and the Jackal, play key roles in the invasion, with the Jackal using his network of spies and satellites to disrupt the enemy's communications and provide an advantage to Darrow's forces. As the battle begins, Darrow reflects on his past and his motivations, knowing that he is taking a great risk, but believing that it is necessary to bring about change and create a better future. The chapter ends with Darrow and his allies preparing to launch their attack on Mars, ready to face whatever challenges and dangers lie ahead.
The scene is set in a massive hangar bay on Darrow's ship, where thousands of soldiers from various Colors are preparing for battle. Darrow is approached by Sevro, who warns him that every move he makes today will be recorded and broadcast to the entire Solar System, and that he must act like a god to be followed like one. Sevro reveals that he has been planning to infiltrate the Citadel in Agea and kill ArchGovernor Augustus, but Darrow forbids it. Mustang oversees the troop operations, and Proctor Jupiter, a former enemy, appears and offers to help Darrow find and kill the Bellona family members. Jupiter reveals that he has been working with Mustang, sneaking in and out of Augustus's cities to send word to loyal cities. Darrow's team prepares to launch, with the goal of invading Mars and taking control of the planet. As they prepare for battle, Darrow is filled with a sense of uncertainty and doubt, but he knows that he must lead his army to victory if he wants to bring about change and create a better future.
Darrow and his allies launch a massive invasion of Mars, with the goal of capturing the planet and weakening the Golds. Darrow is part of an elite group of soldiers who are dropped onto the planet's surface in armored starShells, where they must navigate through treacherous terrain and enemy forces to reach their objectives. As they descend onto the planet, Darrow's squad is separated from the main force, and they must fight to regroup and continue their mission. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles, including enemy gunships, missiles, and infantry. Darrow's squad suffers losses, including the death of one of their own, and they are forced to adapt and improvise to survive. Meanwhile, Darrow receives a message from Roque, who informs him that the Sovereign, Octavia au Lune, is on Mars, trapped behind the shields of Agea. Darrow already knew this, and it's a key part of his plan to capture Agea and gain a strategic advantage in the war.
Darrow and his allies, including Mustang, Sevro, and Ragnar, launch a massive invasion of Mars, aiming to capture the planet and weaken the Golds. They successfully land and begin their assault on the city of Agea, but the defenders put up a fierce resistance. Darrow's plan is to use the river that runs under the city's defensive wall to gain entry, a passage that the Sons of Ares had secretly prepared for them. As they move through the underwater tunnel, Darrow assigns tasks to his team: Ragnar will open the gates, Mustang will lower the shield, and Darrow will find and capture the Sovereign, Octavia au Lune. However, upon emerging from the river, they are met with a surprise: a young Brown girl, seemingly innocent, but carrying a deadly globe device that disrupts their communications and technology. As Darrow hesitates to shoot her, the girl activates the device, and the group is ambushed by Bellona knights and their Obsidian retinue, who were waiting in hiding. The chapter ends with Darrow and his team under attack, facing a desperate fight for survival.
Darrow and his team are ambushed by the Bellona and left to die in the mud of a riverbank, their starShells paralyzed by an EMP blast. Darrow manages to escape his suit by cutting off his own arm and freeing himself, and then proceeds to rescue Ragnar, a Stained Obsidian, by cutting him out of his suit as well. Together, they sneak through the mud and kill their enemies, using stealth and cunning to take them down. As they fight, Darrow and Ragnar work together seamlessly, with Ragnar using his incredible strength to take down their foes. After a intense battle, they emerge victorious, but not without suffering heavy losses. Darrow's team is decimated, with many of his friends and allies killed in the ambush. Sevro, one of Darrow's closest friends, is found buried in the riverbank and is barely alive. Darrow and his remaining team members are left to mourn their losses and regroup, knowing that they must press on and complete their mission to capture the Sovereign and bring down the Society.
Darrow and his team, severely depleted and injured, launch a final assault on the Citadel to capture the Sovereign, Octavia au Lune. Darrow sends Ragnar and the Obsidians to open the gates for their allies, while he and the remaining Howlers, including Sevro, Mustang, and Thistle, make their way to the Citadel on foot, shedding their armor to move quickly. As they approach the Citadel, they learn that Mustang has successfully taken down the shield, and the Sovereign's escape route is now open. Darrow gives Sevro's gravBoots to Sevro, who lifts the team over the wall, but they malfunction, and Sevro falls, injuring his arm. Darrow decides to proceed alone, leaving his friends behind, and sprints through the Citadel's gardens, determined to catch the Sovereign. He reaches the landing pad just as the Sovereign's shuttle is taking off and manages to grab onto the ramp, pulling himself aboard as the ship lifts off.
Darrow, severely injured and exhausted, finds himself on the Sovereign's shuttle, where he is met with hostility and contempt. The Sovereign orders Aja to kill him, but Fitchner intervenes, suggesting that Darrow's execution be filmed for propaganda purposes. However, just as Fitchner is about to carry out the order, he reveals his true identity as Ares, the leader of the Sons of Ares, and turns against the Sovereign and her Praetorians. Ares shoots his pulseFist at the Praetorians, causing chaos and destruction, and then grabs Darrow, tossing a sonic grenade as they make their escape. As they fall through the air, Ares howls like a wolf, and Darrow loses consciousness, unsure of what the future holds.
Darrow wakes up in a bed, recovering from his injuries, with Mustang by his side. She updates him on the current situation, including the fact that the Sovereign has escaped and that his allies have suffered heavy losses. Darrow is filled with grief and guilt, and Mustang tries to comfort him. As they talk, Darrow's emotions overwhelm him, and he breaks down in tears. Mustang holds him, and they eventually share a romantic moment, putting aside their past reservations and guilt. Darrow realizes that he can't keep running from his feelings and that he wants to be with Mustang. The chapter ends with them intimate, Darrow finally allowing himself to feel and express his emotions.
Darrow spends a leisurely day with his friends at Mustang's family estate, enjoying breakfast, conversation, and games. However, the atmosphere is not entirely carefree, as Roque still harbors resentment towards Darrow for past betrayals. Darrow attempts to apologize and make amends, but Roque's feelings are complex, and he expresses a sense of being used by Darrow. Their conversation is interrupted by Sevro, who brings urgent news that Ares, Darrow's allies, have been captured by the Jackal. The chapter ends with Darrow receiving this news, and his attention is diverted from his personal relationships to the larger conflict at hand.
Darrow arrives at the Jackal's new home, a fortress citadel in the city of Attica, where he meets with the Jackal and Victra. Darrow gives them gifts, a crystal bottle of petrichor to Victra and a mysterious box to the Jackal, as a sign of his commitment to their alliance. However, their meeting is interrupted by a breach in the lower level of the citadel, and they are ambushed by masked intruders, revealed to be the Sons of Ares. The intruders, including Sevro, attack the Jackal's guards and try to extract information from him. Darrow and Victra are forced to the ground, but Darrow manages to grab a weapon and fires at the intruders, who escape through the window. The Jackal reveals that the intruders were after captured Sons of Ares members, including Harmony, and that he had been keeping this information from Darrow and Victra. The chapter ends with the Jackal realizing that his chief of security, Sun-hwa, has betrayed him, and Darrow promising to help him kill the traitors. Unbeknownst to the Jackal, Sun-hwa is actually loyal and has been killed by Darrow's friends, who have escaped with her body.
Darrow meets with Dancer, the leader of the Sons of Ares, and is reunited with Mickey, who has been tortured by the Jackal. Darrow learns that Fitchner, also known as Ares, is Sevro's father and a former Gold who was driven to rebellion after his wife, a Red, was killed by the Society. Fitchner reveals his plan for Darrow to become the Sovereign, with Augustus's help, and then have Sevro kill Augustus, allowing Darrow to take control of the Society. However, Darrow is hesitant and wants to go home to Lykos to see his family before the war begins. He also wants to take Mustang with him, which Fitchner strongly advises against, citing the risk of losing leverage and ruining their plans. Darrow is determined to trust Mustang and be honest with her, even if it means risking everything.
Darrow returns to his hometown of Lykos on Mars, visiting the bubbleGarden where he last saw his wife Eo before her death. He reflects on his past and the changes that have occurred since he left, including the degradation of the garden and the tameness of his former enemy, Ugly Dan. Darrow comes to realize that his memories of the garden and Eo are imperfect and that she was a complex person with flaws. He ultimately decides to move on from his past and continue his mission to bring down the Society, knowing that Eo would want him to keep fighting for a better future.
Darrow visits the mine where his wife Eo sang the Forbidden Song, accompanied by Mustang and Ragnar. He meets with MineMagistrate Timony cu Podginus, a corrupt and greedy Copper who has been exploiting the Red miners. Darrow tests Podginus's character, threatening to quarantine the mine, but ultimately decides to spare it and instead orders Podginus to increase the miners' rations and throw them a feast. As Darrow watches the celebration, he is filled with a sense of sadness and disconnection, knowing that he can never truly be one of the Reds again. Mustang joins him, and they discuss the corruption and exploitation of the mine, as well as her plans to reform the Department of Energy and the Board of Quality Control. Darrow then takes Mustang to a special place, implying that he wants to show her something significant related to his past and his connection to the mine.
Darrow returns to his hometown of Lykos on Mars, visiting his childhood home and reuniting with his mother. He finds that his mother has suffered a stroke and is now partially paralyzed, but she still recognizes him and is overjoyed to see him. Darrow tells his mother about his experiences as a Gold and his plans to bring down the Society, and she listens intently, offering her own insights and concerns. She reveals that Darrow's uncle, Narol, is believed to be dead, but she thinks he may have faked his own death and escaped. Darrow also learns that his sister, Leanna, is remarried and living in Gamma Township, and that his brother, Kieran, is now the head of the household and has taken another wife, Dio, who is pregnant. As Darrow prepares to leave, his mother touches on the theme of why the Reds sing, suggesting that it is a way to find joy and to let the dead know that they are still remembered. The chapter ends with Darrow reflecting on his mother's words and the significance of singing in the Red culture.
Darrow's true identity as a Red is revealed to Mustang, and she is torn between her loyalty to her family and her feelings for him. Darrow explains his past and his motivations, and Mustang is forced to confront the harsh realities of the Society and her family's role in it. Meanwhile, Ragnar, a Stained Obsidian, intervenes and reveals his own backstory, explaining that he lives for his sisters and his brother, and that he has earned many scars fighting for the Golds. Ragnar puts himself at Mustang's mercy, having faith in Darrow and his mission. The chapter ends with Darrow and Mustang sharing a poignant moment, and Darrow asking her what she lives for, leaving her to ponder her own motivations and loyalties.
The chapter begins with Darrow, now known as the Reaper, standing in his chariot, waving to the crowd as he prepares to receive his Triumph Mask. The ceremony is a grand affair, with thousands of people in attendance, including many high-ranking Golds. However, Darrow's mind is elsewhere, thinking about his past and his true identity as a Red. He is approached by Augustus, who reveals that he knows Darrow's secret and offers him a place as his heir, suggesting that Darrow marry his daughter, Virginia. Darrow agrees, but it is revealed that this is all a ruse, and Roque, one of Darrow's closest friends, is actually working against him. Roque poisons Darrow and reveals that he has been playing a long game, manipulating events to bring about the downfall of Darrow and his allies. The Jackal, a key player in the plot, appears and kills Augustus, and the scene erupts into chaos as Darrow's friends and allies are attacked and killed. The chapter ends with Darrow paralyzed and helpless, watching as his world is torn apart, and he is left to confront the shocking truth: Fitchner, the leader of the Sons of Ares and a key ally, has been killed, and his head is presented to Darrow in a box.