Easy to read full book summaries for any book.
The book is set in a future where humanity has colonized other planets and formed a complex societal hierarchy. The story follows multiple characters, including Darrow, a young man known as the Reaper, who is a key figure in the war between the ruling class, known as the Golds, and the lower classes. Darrow's journey takes him from being a hero of the Republic to a fugitive, as he navigates the complexities of war, leadership, and family. Meanwhile, other characters, such as Lyria, a young woman from Mars, and Lysander, a Gold, become embroiled in the conflict, each with their own motivations and loyalties. The story explores themes of power, identity, and the consequences of war, as the characters face difficult choices and confront their own demons. Throughout the book, the characters' paths intersect and collide, leading to a dramatic and intense conclusion that will determine the fate of the solar system.
The story unfolds on the planet Mercury, where the city of Tyche is under attack. The once vibrant city is now deserted and fearful, with its wealthy inhabitants having fled to safety and its poor huddled in underground transit systems. A young girl with Orange eyes watches the battle unfold from her tenement window, feeling a sense of bravery as she draws a symbol of chaos and war. Meanwhile, a figure known as the Reaper lies in wait in his armored suit, preparing to descend upon the planet with his army. As the bombs begin to fall, the city is thrown into chaos, and the Reaper is launched into space, falling towards the war-torn planet with a heavy heart. The story is a poignant portrayal of the devastating effects of war on individuals and society, and the Reaper's introspection raises questions about the true cost of conflict and the nature of his own identity.
The story continues with Darrow, now known as the Reaper, returning to Hyperion City as a hero after a long and brutal war. He is greeted with a grand parade, but his mind is elsewhere, haunted by the memories of his fallen comrades and the weight of his responsibilities. As he makes his way through the crowds, he is met with a mix of adoration and resentment, reflecting the complex and often tumultuous nature of his relationship with the people and the Republic he fights for. Darrow's thoughts are also consumed by his desire to be reunited with his family, particularly his wife and son, and to find a way to end the war once and for all. Upon reaching the New Forum, he is met by the Republic's leaders, including the ArchWarden Wulfgar and the Sovereign, who is also his wife. The reunion is emotional, but it is clear that Darrow's actions have not gone unnoticed, and that there will be consequences to face in the days to come.
The story continues with Darrow's return to his family's home, Silene Manor, on the moon of Luna. He is greeted by the steward, Cedric, and reunites with his friends and family, including his son Pax, who has grown and changed in his absence. Darrow struggles to reconnect with Pax, who is distant and cold towards him. He also meets with his mother, who is still haunted by the memories of her past and the loss of her husband. Darrow's conversation with his old mentor, Dancer, reveals the tension between them, as Dancer opposes Darrow's actions as a military leader and advocates for the rights of the lowColor people. Their conversation hints at a deeper rift between them, one that may be irreparable. Meanwhile, Sevro's presence provides a sense of levity and camaraderie, but also underscores the complexities of their relationships and the weight of their responsibilities. As Darrow navigates his personal and professional life, he must confront the consequences of his actions and the challenges of leading a fragile and divided Republic.
The story takes a brief respite from the intensity of war as Darrow reunites with his family and friends at Silene Manor on the moon of Luna. A dinner gathering brings together a diverse group of characters, including Victra, Sevro, and Daxo, and for a moment, they are able to forget about the troubles of the world and enjoy each other's company. However, as the evening wears on, the conversation turns to the ongoing conflict and the challenges that Darrow faces as a leader. Darrow's wife, Mustang, discusses the growing discontent among the people and the rising influence of the Vox Populi, a faction that opposes Darrow's actions. Meanwhile, Darrow and Mustang share a intimate moment, reflecting on their love and the life they want to build together. But their tranquility is short-lived, as an emergency session of the Senate is called, and Darrow's hearing is moved up to the next day, foreshadowing a new wave of challenges and conflicts for the Reaper.
The story shifts to the perspective of Lyria, a young woman from the Gamma clan, who recounts her experiences growing up in the mine of Lagalos on Mars. After the Rising freed her people from the Gray warlord, Lyria was taken to the surface, where she saw the true sky for the first time and was introduced to the Solar Republic's relief efforts. However, two years later, Lyria finds herself living in Assimilation Camp 121, struggling to survive amidst poverty, malaria outbreaks, and the threat of the Red Hand marauders. The Republic's promises of a better life have not materialized, and Lyria's family and community are forced to scrape by, with many young people leaving to join the war effort or working menial jobs for food tokens. Lyria's narrative provides a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by the lower-color clans on Mars, who are struggling to find their place in the new Solar Republic.
The story continues with Lyria, who returns to her family's hut in Assimilation Camp 121, where she reunites with her sister Ava, her niece and nephews, and her ailing father. The family shares a meal together and watches a news program on the HC, which reports on the Reaper's Triumph in Hyperion City. Later that night, Lyria is awoken by the sound of engines and decides to investigate, despite her brother Tiran's attempts to stop her. She discovers that two pelican transport vessels have landed on the concrete pads, and a group of armed Reds are arguing with the men from their camp. The situation escalates, and Tiran is fatally shot by one of the Reds, a woman with terrible scars on her face, who claims to be seeking justice against the Gamma collaborators. Lyria is left in shock and grief, witnessing the brutal killing of her brother.
The story follows Ephraim, a skilled thief, as he and his team, including Volga, Dano, and Cyra, infiltrate the Hyperion Museum of Antiquities to steal the Lightbringer, a valuable sword once owned by the first overlord, Silenius au Lune. Ephraim, a former legion member, has planned the heist meticulously, using his knowledge of the museum's security systems and his team's unique skills to bypass alarms and cameras. As they navigate the museum, they encounter various obstacles, including a drone garage and security doors, but Ephraim's plan seems to be unfolding smoothly. However, as the adrenaline of the heist begins to wear off, Ephraim is overcome with a deep sense of depression, hinting at a troubled past. The team successfully retrieves the sword, and as they prepare to exit the museum, Ephraim's thoughts are consumed by his emotions, leaving the reader wondering about the consequences of their actions and the true nature of Ephraim's character.
The story follows Ephraim, a skilled thief, as he finalizes the deal for the stolen Lightbringer sword with his employer's representative, Oslo. After the transaction, Ephraim is informed that this will be the last job he will be working on for this particular client, leaving him without a new assignment. He meets up with his crew to disburse the funds from the heist, but the gathering is tense and filled with underlying conflicts. As they discuss their next move, Ephraim reveals that there are no more jobs lined up, causing concern among his team. The situation becomes more volatile when two Golds, members of the elite and powerful class, enter the bar, drawing attention and asserting their dominance. Ephraim's past experiences and biases against the Golds are evident, and he becomes agitated, eventually leaving the bar and heading out into the night.
The story follows Lysander au Lune, a young man who was once the heir to a powerful empire, as he navigates a new life with his teacher, Cassius au Bellona, a former Gold who murdered his own Sovereign. Lysander and Cassius are on a mission to investigate a distress signal from a cargo hauler, the Vindabona, which is adrift in the Gulf between Republic space and Rim territory. As they board the ship, they find evidence of a massacre and eventually discover a group of survivors who were bound and beaten by the attackers. The survivors reveal that the attackers are likely Ascomanni, a group of Obsidians who have been terrorizing the area. Lysander and Cassius also learn that there is a Gold on board, who may still be alive. Despite Cassius's orders to evacuate the survivors and leave the Gold behind, Lysander decides to search for the Gold, feeling a sense of duty to protect one of his own kind. He navigates the ship, avoiding the Ascomanni, and eventually discovers the Gold, a naked woman with Gold Sigils on her hands, hanging upside down in a wire net.
Lysander finds the Gold girl, who is badly injured and being held in a wire net. He frees her and she injects herself with stims, which gives her a surge of energy. She then steals Lysander's razor and attacks him, before fleeing. Lysander is left to fend off the Ascomanni, a group of Obsidians, and eventually escapes with the help of Cassius and Pytha. The Gold girl reappears, badly injured, and Lysander helps her onto their ship, the Archimedes. As they escape, the ship is damaged and the Gold girl's injuries are tended to by Lysander. He discovers that she has a number of scars and wounds, and eventually finds a false patch of skin on her cheek, revealing that she is a Peerless Scarred, a member of a legendary and feared group. The girl's true identity and motives are still unknown, and Lysander is left to wonder what she was doing on the ship and what she meant by her cryptic message, "Help...at...S-1392."
The story continues with Darrow, now known as the Reaper, standing before the Senate to discuss the ongoing war and the proposed Resolution of Liberty Eternal. The Senate is divided, with the Optimates, led by Daxo, supporting Darrow's plan to draft more troops and allocate resources to finish the war, while the Vox Populi, led by Dancer, oppose the plan, citing the high cost in lives and the need for a more peaceful approach. Dancer accuses Darrow of disobeying Senate orders and causing unnecessary bloodshed, and questions whether the war is truly necessary. Just as it seems that the debate is reaching a boiling point, Dancer reveals a surprise witness, Julia au Bellona, a Gold and the mother of Cassius au Bellona, who brings a message from the Ash Lord. Bellona reveals that the Ash Lord is tired of war and seeks a permanent and lasting peace, and that emissaries were sent to Darrow to request an armistice, but were met with an Iron Rain instead. The Senate is shocked, and Darrow is faced with the possibility that there may be a way to end the war without further bloodshed.
The story continues with Darrow facing intense backlash in the Senate after Julia au Bellona reveals that the Ash Lord sent emissaries to negotiate peace, but Darrow rejected them and instead launched an Iron Rain. The Senate erupts into chaos, with many calling for Darrow's removal from command and imprisonment. Dancer, Darrow's former mentor, leads the charge against him, accusing him of being a warlord and a tyrant. Publius cu Caraval proposes a vote to remove Darrow from high command and place him under house arrest, pending a trial for treason. As Darrow is escorted out of the Senate, he is met with fear and uncertainty from his wife, Mustang. Outside, Darrow is warned by Wulfgar not to leave the city, and Sevro offers to rally the Seventh Legion and other allies to his cause. However, Darrow decides to summon the Howlers, indicating that he is preparing for a more drastic and violent response to the situation. The chapter ends with Darrow walking away from the Senate, determined to take matters into his own hands and continue the war against the Ash Lord.
Lyria's world is turned upside down as the Red Hand, a ruthless group, attacks her home in Assimilation Camp 121. She witnesses the brutal killing of her brother Tiran and is forced to flee for her life. With a heavy heart, Lyria says goodbye to her ailing father, knowing they may never see each other again. She sets out to rescue her nephew Liam from the infirmary and, with him in tow, attempts to reach the safety of the jungle. However, their path is fraught with danger, and they are forced to hide in a rubbish heap to avoid the Red Hand's slingBlade-wielding warriors. As they catch their breath, Lyria tries to comfort Liam, who is traumatized by the sounds of violence and death. Despite the overwhelming fear and uncertainty, Lyria finds a glimmer of hope when she discovers they are not alone in their hiding spot, and she devises a plan to reunite with her sister Ava, who she hopes has escaped to the boats. With newfound determination, Lyria prepares to face the dangers ahead, fueled by her love for her family and her desire to survive.
Lyria's desperate attempt to escape the Red Hand's attack on her home in Assimilation Camp 121 continues as she navigates through a dumpsite, fleeing from flames and gunfire. She and her nephew Liam are forced to hide, but their refuge is soon compromised, and they are met with a horrific sight: a group of young men, covered in soot and sweat, blocking their path to the boats, with a woman who had previously killed Lyria's brother Tiran. As the situation escalates, a Republic ship intervenes, dropping missiles and deploying a knight in orange armor, who engages the Red Hand. Lyria is injured in the crossfire, but she manages to escape with Liam to the riverbed, where they hide among the reeds. As they catch their breath, Lyria notices the knight, who has crashed into the river, and decides to help him, despite his intimidating appearance. With the aid of other survivors, they manage to pull the knight out of the water and remove his helmet, revealing a massive, bald, and bearded Gold warrior. As they tend to the knight, Lyria and the others are met with the arrival of more Republic ships, which forces the Red Hand to retreat, but not before Camp 121 is left in ruins.
The story follows Ephraim, a former legion member, as he meets with Holiday, a member of the Reaper's Howler Battalion, at a shady bar in the Mass, a lawless area near Hyperion City. They reunite on the anniversary of Trigg's death, Ephraim's former lover who was killed in action. The conversation is tense, with Ephraim criticizing the Reaper and the Sovereign for their handling of the war and the treatment of Golds. Holiday tries to persuade Ephraim to join the Rising and help take down the Syndicate, but he refuses. The meeting ends with Holiday leaving, and Ephraim is left to drown his sorrows. As he stands at the edge of the sidewalk, contemplating jumping, he is stopped by a group of men in black leather dusters, who beat him and leave him unconscious. Throughout the chapter, Ephraim's past and his feelings of guilt and grief over Trigg's death are revealed, showing the emotional toll the war has taken on him.
Lysander and Cassius are on the run from the Ascomanni, a group of Obsidians, after rescuing a Gold girl from their clutches. Their ship, the Archimedes, is badly damaged, and they are being pursued by the Ascomanni's military vessels. Cassius decides to set a course for the asteroid S-1392, where the Gold girl claimed there would be help. As they approach the asteroid, they are met with a surprise: a Rim Dominion Destroyer, the Charybdis, emerges from the shadows and destroys the Ascomanni ships. The Charybdis then contacts the Archimedes, warning them to stand by for boarding. Cassius, fearing the worst, prepares for the boarding by using a faciem, a device that alters his appearance, to disguise himself. He uses the device without painkillers, enduring immense pain as his face is altered to conceal his identity. With Cassius's new appearance, they await the boarding, hoping to avoid detection and capture by the Rim Dominion.
Darrow stands on his tower, overlooking the Eternal City, as a hard rain falls. He reflects on the state of the city and the war, knowing that his people suffer and that the Ash Lord's forces have left their mark. Quicksilver, a Silver man, arrives and informs Darrow that the Senate has voted to remove him from command and issue a warrant for his arrest. Darrow reveals that he plans to leave the moon and asks Quicksilver for his help, specifically requesting the use of his ship, the Nessus. Quicksilver agrees, and Darrow meets with his loyal followers, the Howlers, to discuss his plan. He tells them that the Ash Lord is trying to manipulate him into using the Seventh Legion to dissolve the Senate and seize power, which would fracture the Colors and allow the Ash Lord to gain control. Darrow decides to leave the moon and go to Venus to find and kill the Ash Lord, rather than being arrested or starting a civil war. Some of the Howlers, including Holiday, decide not to follow Darrow, citing their loyalty to the Republic and their duty to protect it. Sefi, the queen of the Obsidians, also declines to join Darrow, stating that her duty is to her people and that she will not march into another war. The remaining Howlers, led by Sevro, agree to follow Darrow on his mission to Venus, and they set out with a sense of determination and uncertainty.
Lyria's life is forever changed after the Red Hand's brutal attack on her home in Assimilation Camp 121. She witnesses the killing of her brother and later discovers the lifeless body of her sister, along with her sister's children. Overwhelmed with grief and anger, Lyria meets Kavax au Telemanus, a Gold and Praetor of the Republic, who owes her a debt of gratitude for saving his life. Despite initial reluctance, Kavax decides to take Lyria and her blind nephew Liam with him to Luna, making her a valet of House Telemanus, after his animal companion, Sophocles, seems to give her his blessing. As they prepare to depart, Lyria is torn between her desire to leave the devastated camp and her sadness at leaving behind the memories of her family. With a mix of emotions, she embarks on a new journey, hoping to find a better life and to live for both herself and her deceased sister.
Ephraim ti Horn, a skilled thief, awakens to find himself in a precarious situation, bound and at the mercy of the Duke of Hands, a powerful and feared figure in the underworld. The Duke reveals that he has been searching for Ephraim, who had stolen the Sword of Silenius, a valuable artifact, from the Hyperion Museum of Antiquities. However, it becomes clear that the theft was a test, set up by the Duke himself, to assess Ephraim's skills and character. The Duke offers Ephraim a deal: in exchange for working for the Syndicate, a powerful organization, Ephraim will be given the opportunity to ascend to a position of power and wealth. The Duke presents Ephraim with the Queen's Kiss, a symbol of the Syndicate's authority, and tasks him with stealing something of great value. Ephraim, aware of the risks and consequences of refusing, reluctantly agrees to work for the Duke, setting the stage for a complex and perilous adventure.
Ephraim's crew gathers at his residence, where he reveals the Queen's Kiss, a symbol of the Syndicate's authority, and explains the job offered by the Duke of Hands. The crew is hesitant and divided, with Cyra opposing the idea and Volga showing loyalty to Ephraim. Despite the risks and uncertainties, Ephraim convinces them to take on the heist, which involves stealing a valuable prize with a potential payout of 80 million credits. With a tight timeline of only a month, the crew begins to discuss the plan and the challenges they will face, including infiltrating high-security locations and gathering intelligence. As they delve into the details, they receive news of an arrest warrant issued for the Reaper, a significant development that may impact their mission. Ephraim, aware of the dangers and uncertainties, decides to proceed with the plan, driven by a sense of determination and a desire to take control of his fate.
Lysander and his crew are taken captive by the Rim Dominion after being rescued from the Ascomanni. They are brutally beaten and interrogated by Venator Pandora, a ruthless and aged Gold woman who serves as a high-ranking officer in the Rim Dominion. Lysander meets Diomedes, a young and powerful Storm Knight who is revealed to be the brother of Seraphina, the Gold girl they rescued. Diomedes protects his sister from Pandora's interrogation and takes her to receive medical attention. Lysander and his crew are spared from torture but are instead imprisoned in cells. As Lysander is dragged away, he pieces together the facts and realizes that he is now a captive of Romulus au Raa, the Sovereign of the Rim Dominion, and that Diomedes and Seraphina are his children. This revelation puts Lysander in a precarious and potentially deadly situation, as he is now a prisoner of a powerful and ruthless leader who is sworn enemies with Lysander's own family.
Darrow prepares to leave with the Howlers to pursue his plan to kill the Ash Lord, despite the risks and potential consequences. He visits his son Pax and says goodbye, trying to explain his reasons for leaving, but Pax is upset and feels abandoned. Darrow then meets with his wife, Mustang, who is torn between her duty as Sovereign and her love for him. She tries to persuade him to stay and work with her to find a peaceful solution, but he is resolute in his decision. The Republic Wardens, led by Wulfgar, arrive to arrest Darrow, but he refuses to go quietly and a fierce battle ensues. Darrow fights off the Wardens, but not before killing Wulfgar, a respected and beloved hero of the Republic. The consequences of Darrow's actions will be severe, and he knows that he has crossed a line. As he leaves with Sevro, he sees the devastation he has caused and the horror in the eyes of his wife and son, and he realizes that he may have made a terrible mistake.
Lysander, a young Gold, is being held captive by the Rim Dominion on the moon of Io. He is on a ship with his friend Cassius, and they are being transported to an unknown destination. Lysander is desperate to escape and find a way to rescue their pilot, Pytha, who was taken by the Rim Dominion. He tries to appeal to their captor, Diomedes au Raa, a Storm Knight and son of the Sovereign of the Rim Dominion, by reminding him of their shared Gold heritage and the honor of their family. However, Diomedes is unmoved and instead subjects Lysander to a brutal lesson in respect, dangling him outside the ship in the toxic atmosphere of Io. Lysander is left shaken and injured, but he apologizes and acknowledges Diomedes' authority, earning a measure of forgiveness. As they continue on their journey, Lysander is determined to find a way to escape and survive, despite the harsh conditions and the ruthless nature of their captors.
Lyria, a young woman from Mars, is working as a valet for House Telemanus on the moon of Luna. She is tasked with caring for Sophocles, a genetically engineered fox with a long history of being cloned and serving the family. Lyria's daily routine includes collecting Sophocles' waste samples for analysis by Dr. Liago, the family's physician. As she navigates the intricate social hierarchy of the Citadel, Lyria struggles to find her place among the other servants and valets, who seem to pity her for her humble background and the tragic events that brought her to Luna. Despite the challenges, Lyria finds comfort in her interactions with Dr. Liago, who treats her with kindness and respect, and with the other Martian workers in the warehouse, who share her cultural heritage and bluntness. Meanwhile, Sophocles' behavior becomes increasingly erratic, causing trouble and destruction in the estate, and Lyria must find a way to manage his antics while also dealing with the complexities of her new life on Luna.
Ephraim, a skilled thief, and his crew, including Volga and Cyra, prepare for a high-stakes heist by gathering equipment and information. They visit Kobachi's Tech Emporium, a shady shop in the depths of Hyperion, where they acquire advanced military technology, including a hunter-killer drone. Ephraim's interactions with Kobachi, the shop's owner, reveal the complexities of their relationship and the influence of the Syndicate, a powerful organization that seems to have a hold on Kobachi. As they plan their heist, Ephraim's crew is aware of the risks and potential consequences, but they are driven by the promise of a significant payout and the opportunity to take control of their lives. Meanwhile, the city is abuzz with news of the Reaper's actions and the hunt for him, which serves as a backdrop for the crew's preparations.
Lysander and Cassius are brought before Romulus au Raa, the Sovereign of the Rim Dominion, in a fortress on the moon of Io. Romulus is a complex and intimidating figure, with a missing eye and a calm, collected demeanor. He is accompanied by his family, including his daughter Seraphina, who was rescued by Lysander and Cassius, and his sons Diomedes and Marius. Romulus questions Lysander and Cassius about their presence in the Rim and their involvement with Seraphina, who had gone rogue and risked sparking a war. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that Romulus is hiding something and that Seraphina's actions were motivated by a desire to uncover the truth about the destruction of the Ganymede Docks. The scene takes a dramatic turn when a missile strike hits the fortress, and Romulus reveals that he is waiting for his wife, who is presumably behind the attack. The Golds prepare to defend themselves, and Lysander and Cassius are left to wonder if they will be able to escape or if they will become casualties of the impending battle.
The story continues with Lysander, who is being held captive by the Rim Dominion. Dido au Raa, the wife of Romulus au Raa and mother to his seven children, arrives with a group of armed Golds, seeking to confront her husband. The scene erupts into violence as Dido's men move to arrest Romulus, but Diomedes, Romulus's son, defends his father and engages in a fierce battle with Dido's men. Despite being outnumbered, Diomedes proves to be a skilled warrior, taking down several of Dido's men before being stopped by his mother. Romulus is eventually taken into custody, and Dido reveals that she has come to take control of the Rim Dominion. Lysander and Cassius, who have been watching the scene unfold, are discovered and taken into custody by Dido's men. However, Seraphina intervenes on their behalf, revealing that they had saved her life, and Dido decides to show them hospitality, offering them food and water. The chapter ends with Lysander and Cassius being treated as guests by Dido, who seeks to amend the oversight of her husband's lack of hospitality.
Darrow, now a fugitive, leads a team of Howlers on a mission to infiltrate Deepgrave Prison, a maximum-security facility located on the ocean floor, to rescue a notorious prisoner known as 1126. The team, disguised as a Society commando squad, commandeer a crabbing trawler and use a stolen submersible to reach the prison. They bypass the prison's defenses and make their way to the Omega Level, where the most dangerous prisoners are held. However, upon arriving at the cell of 1126, they find an unexpected occupant - a mute and tattooed Obsidian guard who claims to have been stabbed in the back. The guard seems to know something about the prisoner's whereabouts, but the team is unsure if they can trust him. As they try to gather more information, they realize that the prisoner's implant or collar is not on the system, and they must navigate the prison's treacherous landscape to find him before the alarm is raised and the guards are alerted to their presence.
Darrow and his team, disguised as a Society commando squad, infiltrate Deepgrave Prison to rescue prisoner 1126, also known as Apollonius au Valii-Rath, a notorious war criminal. They are aided by an Obsidian guard who claims to have been imprisoned unjustly. The team navigates the prison, avoiding guards and security measures, and eventually reaches the warden's quarters. The warden, Videli cu Yancra, is coerced into revealing the location of Apollonius, who is found in a luxurious cellblock, surrounded by wealth and indulgences. Apollonius is cunning and unpredictable, and he kills the warden in a gruesome manner before being subdued by Darrow and his team. As they prepare to leave, Apollonius recognizes Darrow and begins to laugh maniacally. The team escapes with Apollonius, but not before he is sedated and taken into custody. The Obsidian guard, who has been instrumental in their success, is offered a ride with Darrow's team, but his fate remains uncertain.
Lyria, a young woman from Mars, spends her day off exploring Hyperion City, visiting various attractions and experiencing the city's culture. She encounters a Gold woman who accuses her of theft, and Lyria is nearly arrested by the Watchmen. However, a stranger named Philippe intervenes, claiming to know Lyria and vouching for her innocence. The Watchmen release Lyria, and Philippe spends the day with her, showing her the city's sights and sharing stories about his past. As they spend more time together, Lyria opens up to Philippe about her family and her experiences on Mars, and he shares his own pain and loss. Despite their differences, they form a connection, and Lyria feels seen and understood by Philippe. The day ends with Philippe escorting Lyria back to the Citadel, and they part ways, but not before he invites her to stay in touch.
Darrow, now a fugitive, and his team of Howlers successfully extract several high-value prisoners, including Apollonius au Valii-Rath, from Deepgrave Prison. They escape on the stolen Society frigate, the Nessus, which was previously owned by Quicksilver. As they prepare to depart for Venus, Darrow reflects on the moral implications of their actions and the weight of their mission. He also shares a heartfelt moment with his brother Kieran, who will be staying behind with his daughter Rhonna, a skilled mech pilot who is disappointed to be left out of the mission. Darrow struggles with his own emotions, feeling the distance grow between him and his family, and wonders if he is making a mistake by pursuing his goal of killing the Ash Lord. The team sets off into space, using the Nessus's advanced stealth capabilities to evade detection, and Darrow is left to contemplate the consequences of his actions and the future of the Solar Republic.
Ephraim, a skilled thief, prepares for a high-stakes heist by gathering equipment and information. He meets with Kobachi, who has finished the custom work on a drone and a pendant that is a perfect replica of a Bacchus pendant. Ephraim plans to use the pendant to gain the trust of a young woman named Lyria, who he has been pretending to befriend under the alias "Philippe". As Ephraim and Lyria spend time together in Aristotle Park, Ephraim's facade begins to crack, and he is forced to confront the moral implications of his actions. Despite his efforts to maintain a charming and carefree exterior, Ephraim's past and his feelings of guilt and grief over the death of his former lover, Trigg, continue to haunt him. As the day comes to a close, Ephraim gives Lyria the pendant, telling her it will bring her strength, and she gives him a kiss on the cheek, saying "You're not alone either, Philippe". However, Ephraim knows that this is just a ruse, and he is truly alone in his deceitful world.
Lysander and Cassius are being held captive by Dido au Raa, the wife of Romulus au Raa, in the city of Sungrave on the moon of Io. They are treated to a luxurious bath and massage, but Lysander is uncomfortable with the attentions of the Pink slaves, Aurae and her companion, and declines their advances. Cassius teases Lysander about his innocence and lack of experience with women, but Lysander is more concerned with the political situation and the potential consequences of their captivity. The two men discuss their situation and the likelihood of Dido's coup succeeding, with Cassius expressing skepticism and warning Lysander that their heads may roll when the coup is over. Despite their differences, they share a moment of nostalgia and camaraderie, reminiscing about their time on the Archimedes and their favorite pastimes, including playing Karachi and listening to music. However, the tension and uncertainty of their situation are palpable, and they both know that their relationship and their lives will never be the same again.
Lysander is being held captive by Dido au Raa, the wife of Romulus au Raa, in the city of Sungrave on the moon of Io. He is given a room to change for dinner with the Raa family, but his solitude is interrupted by Seraphina, who appears unexpectedly in his room. They engage in a tense and flirtatious conversation, during which Seraphina reveals her curiosity about Lysander's past and his scars. Lysander is drawn to Seraphina, but is also wary of her intentions and the danger that she poses. As they talk, it becomes clear that Seraphina is struggling with her own loyalties and motivations, particularly with regards to her family and their coup. She warns Lysander to give her mother what she wants, implying that their lives are in danger. The chapter ends with Seraphina disappearing into the shadows, leaving Lysander to wonder about his own fate and the true nature of his captivity.
Darrow, now a fugitive, meets with Apollonius au Valii-Rath, a notorious war criminal, on the stolen frigate Nessus. Apollonius is revealed to be a complex and charismatic individual who has undergone a transformation during his imprisonment. He is offered a deal by Darrow: in exchange for his help in killing the Ash Lord, Apollonius will be given the opportunity to exact revenge on those who betrayed him and reclaim his rightful place as a leader. Apollonius agrees to the proposal, but only after Darrow reveals that his brother, Tharsus, is alive and has been working with the Ash Lord. The plan is set in motion, with Apollonius using his knowledge and influence to help Darrow's team infiltrate Venus and gather intelligence on the Ash Lord's fortress. Meanwhile, Darrow's team discovers a stowaway on the ship, his niece Rhonna, who has run away from home to join the mission. The story takes a dark and intense turn as Darrow and his team prepare to face the challenges ahead, including the possibility of a civil war on Venus and the moral implications of their actions.
Lyria, a young woman from Mars, attends a birthday celebration for Regulus ag Sun, also known as Quicksilver, along with the Telemanus family and their staff. She is tasked with caring for Sophocles, a genetically engineered fox, and is introduced to various high-ranking officials, including the Sovereign, Virginia au Augustus. Lyria is drawn into a conversation with Pax, the First Child, who is eager to learn about her experiences in the mines. However, the conversation turns sour when Lyria becomes angry and resentful towards Pax, feeling that he is trying to exploit her pain for his own curiosity. Later, Lyria discovers a hidden device in a pendant given to her by a mysterious figure named Philippe, which releases a gas that knocks out everyone on the ship. The ship crashes, and Lyria finds herself in a precarious situation, with the sound of metallic scraping and a glowing teardrop-shaped opening in the door, suggesting that they are being rescued or captured by an unknown entity.
Lysander and Cassius attend a dinner with the Raa family, where they engage in a complex and nuanced conversation about morality, power, and the Compact. Dido, the matriarch of the family, reveals that she is aware of their true identities and intentions, and accuses them of stealing a valuable item. The dinner takes a dark turn as Dido's true motives are revealed, and Lysander and Cassius realize they are in grave danger. The chapter ends with the arrival of two Obsidians carrying a safe, which is revealed to be the object of Dido's accusation.
Lysander and Cassius are being held captive by Dido au Raa, who reveals that she has discovered a safe containing a valuable item. Lysander attempts to negotiate, explaining the safe's security features, including plasma charges that will detonate if it is drilled into. Dido proposes a deal, offering to spare their lives if they open the safe, but Lysander and Cassius are wary of her intentions. Cassius suggests a counteroffer, proposing to give Dido the combination to the safe in exchange for their freedom and the release of their pilot and crewmembers. However, it becomes clear that Dido is not interested in negotiating and instead intends to use coercion to get what she wants. The scene takes a dark turn as Dido reveals her true motivations, driven by a desire for vengeance against those she holds responsible for the death of her daughter, Thesalia. The chapter ends with Dido's ominous warning, suggesting that Lysander and Cassius will be forced to endure a terrible fate if they do not comply with her demands.
Lysander and Cassius are being held captive by Dido au Raa, who has discovered their true identities and intentions. She reveals that she knows about the technology of their enemies and has a way to extract the truth from them. A creature called a gruesli is used to eat away Cassius's mask, revealing his true face. Dido accuses Cassius of killing her brother and taking her daughter, and demands that he open a safe containing a valuable item. Cassius refuses, and Dido threatens to let her "dragons" suck the marrow from his bones. Lysander also refuses to betray Cassius, and Dido orders her son Bellerephon to kill Cassius in single combat. However, Diomedes refuses to carry out the order, citing the rules of hospitality, and Seraphina offers to do the deed instead. In the end, Bellerephon accepts the challenge and agrees to fight Cassius in the Bleeding Place, a duel to the death.
Ephraim and his crew execute a high-stakes heist, infiltrating a Gold shuttle and extracting two high-value targets, a boy and a girl. However, the heist takes a deadly turn when a Gold, Kavax au Telemanus, breaks free from the effects of the anacene gas and kills Dano, one of Ephraim's crew members. Ephraim and Volga manage to escape with the targets, but not before setting explosive charges to destroy the evidence. As they drive away, Ephraim reflects on the moral implications of their actions and the weight of their mission. He also grapples with his own emotions, feeling a mix of guilt, fear, and hatred. The crew's dynamics are strained, with Volga visibly shaken by the events and Ephraim struggling to come to terms with what they have done. The chapter ends with them driving through the tunnels, the sound of Ridoverchi's piano filling the car, and Volga crying silently beside Ephraim.
Lysander reflects on his conversation with Cassius, who is being held captive by Dido au Raa, the wife of Romulus au Raa. Cassius shares a story about his past, revealing his complexities and the weight of his actions. Lysander tries to convince Cassius to give in to Dido's demands, but Cassius refuses, and the two friends have a falling out. The scene shifts to the Bleeding Place, a circular amphitheater where Cassius is forced to duel against Bellerephon, a skilled Rim knight. Despite being wounded, Cassius manages to defeat Bellerephon, but Dido continues to send more knights to fight him, including Fabera and Bellagra. Cassius defeats them as well, but the duel takes a toll on him. Lysander realizes that Dido's plan is to use Cassius to boil the blood of the Rim and distract from her coup, and he becomes terrified of her conviction and intellect. As the duel continues, Lysander knows he cannot watch Cassius suffer much longer and decides to act. Dido orders Seraphina to fight Cassius, and Lysander is faced with a difficult decision.
Lysander, held captive by Dido au Raa, watches as Cassius is forced to duel against Bellerephon and later Seraphina in the Bleeding Place. Despite his injuries, Cassius manages to defeat Bellerephon, but Seraphina proves to be a more formidable opponent. As Cassius stands on the brink of defeat, Lysander intervenes, declaring his true identity as Lysander au Lune, a member of the prestigious House Lune and descendant of Silenius the Lightbringer. This revelation sends shockwaves through the room, with many Golds reacting in awe and reverence. Lysander demands that the bloodfeud be ended and that Cassius be spared, arguing that their true enemy is the Slave King, not each other. He also requests that Dido bring him the safe, setting the stage for a potentially dramatic and intense confrontation.
Ephraim and Volga deliver the kidnapped children to the Duke of Hands, a powerful figure in the underworld, in exchange for a large sum of money. However, the transaction takes a dark turn when the Duke reveals his true intentions and slaps one of the children, Pax, to make him cry. Ephraim and Volga are forced to watch as the Duke's men take the children away, and they are then confronted about bringing an uninvited guest, a Red-haired girl, to the meeting. The Duke's men chase after the girl, but she escapes, and the Duke orders a bounty to be placed on her head. Meanwhile, Cyra, a member of Ephraim's crew, is revealed to have been secretly working with the Duke, providing him with information about Ephraim's plans. As a punishment, the Duke orders Cyra to be thrown off the high-rise building, and Ephraim is forced to do nothing as he watches her fall to her death. The Duke then offers Ephraim a job, suggesting that he can provide him with the excitement and thrill he craves, and Ephraim is left to consider the offer as he and Volga escape the scene.
Lyria, a young woman from Mars, is on the run after discovering that she was used by a man named Philippe to steal two high-value children. She navigates the dangers of Hyperion City, avoiding Obsidians and other threats, and eventually makes her way to a stairwell that leads to the Promenade levels. As she climbs, she reflects on her past and the events that have led her to this point, including her time in the Citadel and her experiences with the Red Hand. Lyria is driven by a desire to protect her family and to make amends for her role in the theft of the children. She eventually reaches a checkpoint, where she is detected by a scanner and ordered to stop by the Watchmen. With a weapon detected, Lyria is forced to surrender, and her fate hangs in the balance.
Lyria, a young woman from Mars, is taken into custody by Holiday ti Nakamura, a special envoy of the Sovereign, and a team of Lionguards. They are transporting her to the Citadel for questioning about her involvement in the theft of two high-value children. However, their ship is intercepted by Victra au Barca, a powerful and ruthless Gold, who demands that Lyria be handed over to her. Victra's daughter has been taken, and she believes Lyria has information about her disappearance. Holiday refuses to comply, and the situation escalates into a tense standoff. The ship is attacked by Victra's ripWings, but they manage to break through the line of attackers and head towards the Citadel, where they are met with a fleet of Augustus vessels and a team of armored warriors led by Niobe au Telemanus. The scene ends with the ship approaching the Citadel, surrounded by sparks and gunfire, as Lyria's fate hangs in the balance.
Darrow and his team, disguised as a Society commando squad, land on Venus and meet with Apollonius au Valii-Rath, a notorious war criminal who has been freed from prison. Apollonius is reunited with his brother Tharsus, and the team begins to infiltrate the Ash Lord's stronghold. They encounter Tharsus and his entourage, and a violent confrontation ensues, resulting in the deaths of several Golds. Apollonius kills one of the Golds, and Sevro retrieves Tharsus from the water after he tries to escape. The team secures the area, and Apollonius pours wine over Tharsus's face, signaling his return and intentions to reclaim his power.
Darrow and his team, including Apollonius au Valii-Rath, a notorious war criminal, have infiltrated Tharsus's home on Venus. Apollonius confronts his brother Tharsus, who has been working with the Ash Lord, and accuses him of betraying him and their family. Tharsus confesses to his role in Apollonius's imprisonment and begs for forgiveness. Apollonius appears to forgive Tharsus, but the display is unsettling and reveals the dark, twisted dynamics of their family. The team learns that the Ash Lord is cloistered on Gorgon Isle, a heavily fortified island, and that gaining an audience with him will be nearly impossible. Tharsus agrees to help them by gaining an audience, but warns that it will be a difficult task, especially since the Ash Lord's daughter, Atalantia, has vanished and is the only one who can grant access to the Ash Lord. The team must now come up with a plan to infiltrate the island and reach the Ash Lord, despite the formidable defenses and restrictions in place.
Lysander rushes to Cassius's side after he is severely injured by Dido's men. Cassius is taken away by the Olympic Knights to receive medical attention. Dido reveals a hidden truth about the destruction of the Dockyards of Ganymede, which was previously blamed on Roque au Fabii and his Sovereign. A holoprojector shows a video of the event, revealing that the true culprit was the Rising, led by the Slave King, also known as the Reaper, Darrow. The video shows the destruction of the dockyards and the Reaper's involvement in the attack. Dido uses this revelation to call for war against the Reaper and the Rising, and the Moon Lords, led by Helios, agree to support her. The chapter ends with the Moon Lords and the Olympics declaring war against the Reaper, with Seraphina being the last to join in, her declaration seeming to be a personal vendetta against Lysander.
Lysander is taken away by Diomedes and his men after the revelation about the destruction of the Dockyards of Ganymede. He is returned to his room and locked in, where he paces and reflects on his past conversations with Cassius. Lysander recalls their first meeting, where Cassius was arrogant and dismissive, but also charismatic and complex. He remembers Cassius's words and actions, and how he had saved Lysander's life from the Rising. As Lysander waits for news about Cassius's fate, he falls into a meditative state, using the Willow Way to calm his mind. However, his tranquility is short-lived, as he is soon informed by the Pink, Aurae, that Cassius has died from exsanguination. Lysander is devastated by the news and asks to see Cassius's body, but is told that it has been taken by Bellerephon's schoolmates to be desecrated in the Waste. Diomedes has gone to pursue them, and Aurae has been sent to inform Lysander. The news sends Lysander into a state of grief and despair, and he is left alone to mourn the loss of his friend and ally.
Lyria, a young woman from Mars, is being interrogated by Daxo au Telemanus and his mother, Niobe, in the Citadel of Light. They are trying to extract information from her about the kidnapping of Pax, the son of the Sovereign, and Electra, the daughter of Victra au Barca. Lyria insists that she is telling the truth and is not working for the Society or the Red Hand, but Daxo and Niobe are skeptical. They use a creature called an Oracle to try to extract the truth from Lyria, but the Sovereign, Virginia, intervenes and stops the torture. Virginia is angry with her council for disobeying her orders and for underestimating her. She decides to talk to Lyria alone, hoping to get to the bottom of the situation. Lyria is relieved but also fearful of what will happen next. The chapter ends with Virginia's determination to find her son and uncover the truth, and Lyria's uncertainty about her own fate.
Lyria is interrogated by the Sovereign, Virginia au Augustus, about her involvement in the theft of two high-value children, Pax and Electra. The Sovereign is determined to find her son and uncover the truth, and Lyria provides her with information about the man who kidnapped the children, Philippe. However, it is revealed that Philippe is not who he seems to be, and Lyria's description of him does not match the man in the security footage. The Sovereign discovers that the Syndicate, a powerful criminal organization, is behind the kidnapping, and that the man Lyria met was likely a member of the Syndicate. The Sovereign orders her team to investigate further and to find a way to rescue her son. Meanwhile, Lyria's past and her motivations for returning to the Citadel are revealed, and she is shown to be a complex and multifaceted character. The chapter ends with the Sovereign receiving a shock when she discovers that the gun Lyria had was not turned in, and that it may hold a crucial clue to the identity of the kidnapper.
Ephraim, a skilled thief, reflects on his life as he prepares to leave Luna with his friend Volga. However, their plans are disrupted when Volga discovers the true nature of their latest job, which involved kidnapping two high-value children. Volga confronts Ephraim, and they have a falling out, leading to Volga's departure. Ephraim is left alone, feeling relieved but also struggling with the moral implications of his actions. He is then confronted by Holiday, a special envoy of the Sovereign, and Lyria, the young woman he had befriended under an alias. They reveal that they have been tracking him and demand to know the location of the kidnapped children. Ephraim is forced to cooperate, and a deal is made with the Sovereign, who agrees to pardon Ephraim and Volga in exchange for their help in rescuing the children. Ephraim is tasked with locating the Syndicate base and signaling for a strike team to arrive. However, he is aware of the risks and the likelihood of the Syndicate discovering the transponder, and he proposes an alternative plan. The chapter ends with Ephraim agreeing to work with the Sovereign, but with a sense of unease and uncertainty about the outcome.
Darrow and his team prepare to launch a mission to kill the Ash Lord, with the help of Apollonius au Valii-Rath and his remaining Minotaur legionnaires. However, Sevro expresses his concerns and doubts about the plan, feeling that they are taking a huge risk with inadequate manpower and a volatile ally. Despite Sevro's reservations, Darrow remains resolute in his decision to proceed with the mission, and the team begins to make final preparations. Apollonius delivers a rousing speech to his legionnaires, urging them to reclaim their honor and glory, and they set off towards their destination. As Darrow watches Apollonius leave, he reflects on the doubts that Sevro has sowed in his mind, and wonders what secrets the Ash Lord may be hiding. The team readies the Nessus, a stolen Society frigate, and prepares to provide firepower for the mission, with Rhonna joining as a gunner. With tensions running high, Darrow and his team embark on their perilous quest to destroy the Ash Lord and bring an end to the war.
Darrow and his team, disguised as a Society commando squad, launch a mission to kill the Ash Lord, with the help of Apollonius au Valii-Rath and his remaining Minotaur legionnaires. They infiltrate the Ash Lord's darkzone, avoiding enemy patrols and engaging in a fierce battle with the Ash Lord's forces. Darrow and his team, including Sevro, Alexandar, and Thraxa, fight their way through the island, taking out enemy ripWings and troops. Meanwhile, Apollonius's force pushes in and lands troop carriers on the main island, supported by heavily armored spider tanks and air force. The Ash Lord's island is heavily defended, but Darrow's team manages to breach the defenses and make their way towards the Ash Lord's fortress. Along the way, they encounter a sniper who injures Darrow, but Sevro takes revenge by launching a nuclear missile that destroys part of the island and disables the Ash Lord's shields. With the shields down, Darrow and his team prepare to face the Ash Lord and his Gold legionnaires in an epic battle.
Darrow and his team, the Howlers, launch a mission to kill the Ash Lord, with the help of Apollonius au Valii-Rath and his remaining Minotaur legionnaires. They infiltrate the Ash Lord's darkzone, avoiding enemy patrols and engaging in a fierce battle with the Ash Lord's forces. Despite being outnumbered, Apollonius and his knights arrive, carving through the Ash Guard and securing the landing pad. Darrow, Sevro, and Apollonius then prepare to enter the tower, leaving Alexandar to hold the roof and call for backup from the Nessus. The team is battered and bruised, with several members missing or injured, but they press on, determined to reach the Ash Lord and bring an end to the war.
Lysander, still reeling from the death of his friend Cassius, is visited by Gaia, the mother of Romulus au Raa, in a hidden passage of the Raa's fortress on Io. Gaia, who is not as senile as she appears, reveals that she knows Lysander's true identity and intentions. She plays a piano melody that awakens a long-forgotten memory in Lysander, and he begins to play a requiem for Cassius and the others he has lost. Gaia then reveals her true intentions: she wants Lysander to help her free her son Romulus from the Dust Cells, where he is being held by his wife Dido, who has staged a coup against him. Gaia believes that Dido will execute Lysander and Pytha, and offers them a chance to escape and help her son in exchange for their freedom. Lysander agrees to help Gaia, and she provides him with a guide, Goroth, and a weapon, a razor called Shizuka. Lysander and Pytha set out on a perilous journey to free Romulus, navigating the dangers of the Waste and the Olympic Knights who are loyal to Dido.
Lysander, still reeling from the death of his friend Cassius, is guided by Goroth through the ancient city's tunnels to reach the Dust Cells prison facility. However, Lysander's plan to betray Goroth and gain the upper hand is revealed, and he is forced to fight for his life. After a intense struggle, Lysander emerges victorious but severely injured, with a mangled left hand. He and Pytha are captured by Dido's soldiers and taken to face her and Seraphina. Lysander reveals his story and provides evidence of Gaia's involvement in the plot to free Romulus, which Dido believes. She decides to recall her legions and prepare for war, and Lysander's fate is left uncertain, to be decided by Dido and her husband Romulus at a future trial. The chapter ends with Seraphina escorting Lysander back to his cell, and he asks her if her mother sent her to his cell, seeking the truth behind her actions.
Ephraim, a skilled thief, meets with Gorgo, a member of the Syndicate, and is taken to meet the Duke, a powerful and feared figure in the underworld. The Duke reveals his true intentions and Ephraim is forced to play along, pretending to be interested in working for the Syndicate. However, Ephraim's plan is to use the opportunity to rescue the kidnapped children, Pax and Electra, and bring them to safety. As he navigates the Duke's trophy room, Ephraim discovers a gruesome scene, including a severed hand being fed to ants, and realizes the true extent of the Duke's depravity. The Duke's obsession with power and control is revealed, and Ephraim must use all his wits and cunning to outmaneuver him and escape with the children. In a tense and violent confrontation, Ephraim gains the upper hand and forces the Duke to take him to the vault where the children are being held. As they navigate the vault's security measures, Ephraim's determination and resourcefulness are put to the test, and he must confront the darker aspects of his own nature in order to succeed. The chapter ends with Ephraim finally gaining access to the vault, where he finds the children being held in a cage, surrounded by the Duke's vast collection of stolen treasures.
Ephraim, a skilled thief, has successfully infiltrated the Duke's vault and rescued the two high-value children, Pax and Electra. However, as they make their escape, Ephraim is shot by Gorgo, one of the Duke's men, and suffers a serious wound. Despite his injury, Ephraim manages to fly the Duke's ship, a CR-17 Hornet, and contacts Holiday, a special envoy of the Sovereign, to inform her that he has the children and demands that she release his friend Volga in exchange for their safe return. The Sovereign agrees, but Ephraim is skeptical and decides to take the children to the Citadel, where he hopes to find a safe haven. As they fly, Ephraim's wound worsens, and he begins to feel the effects of shock, but he remains determined to protect the children and ensure their safe return. Meanwhile, Pax, the son of the Sovereign, takes control of the situation, holding a razor to Ephraim's eye and demanding that he comply with their plans. The chapter ends with Ephraim's fate uncertain, as he struggles to stay conscious and navigate the ship to their destination.
Lyria reflects on her past and the events that have led her to the Citadel, where she has been working as a valet for House Telemanus. She thinks about the children who were kidnapped and the role she played in their rescue, and feels a sense of relief and hope. The Sovereign, Virginia au Augustus, meets with Lyria and asks for her forgiveness for the Republic's mistakes, particularly in regards to Lyria's family. Lyria is surprised by the Sovereign's humility and agrees to forgive her, and also agrees to testify before the Senate about her experiences. The Sovereign promises to help Lyria's nephew, Liam, and Lyria feels a sense of purpose and determination to help bring justice to those responsible for the kidnapping. However, as Lyria returns to her room, she is attacked by a mysterious woman who injects her with a hypodermic needle, leaving Lyria unconscious and helpless. The woman reveals that she is working for House Barca, suggesting that Victra au Barca is seeking revenge against Lyria.
Darrow, Sevro, and Apollonius finally reach the Ash Lord's chambers, only to find him in a severely deteriorated state, barely clinging to life. The Ash Lord reveals that his daughter, Atalantia, has been leading his forces and is now en route to destroy the Republic's fleet over Mercury. He also drops a devastating bombshell: Darrow's son and Sevro's daughter have been taken. The Ash Lord's true condition and the revelation about the children's abduction leave Darrow and Sevro reeling. In a fit of rage, Sevro attacks the Ash Lord, who ultimately dies after revealing that one of Darrow's own allies is responsible for the children's disappearance. Apollonius then sets the Ash Lord's body on fire, fulfilling his desire for revenge. The chapter ends with Darrow feeling lost and consumed by anguish, his war and choices having torn his family and friends apart.
The story continues with Lysander, who is present in the Hall of Justice in the Ionian Golds' capital city of Sungrave, where Romulus au Raa, the Sovereign of the Rim Dominion, is on trial for gross negligence during wartime. The accuser, Dido au Raa, Romulus's wife, presents evidence, including a hologram of the destruction of the docks of Ganymede, which was previously blamed on Roque au Fabii. However, it is revealed that the true culprit was the Reaper, Darrow, who deceived Romulus and the Rim Dominion. Despite the revelation, Dido only seeks to impeach Romulus from his position as Sovereign, citing negligence. However, the Olympic Council, led by Helios, decides to add a charge of arch treason against Romulus, which carries the punishment of death. Romulus surprisingly admits to the crime, revealing that he knew about the Reaper's deception and conspired to conceal it from the council. He explains that he did so to prevent a war between the Rim and the Core, which he believes would be devastating for all parties involved. The trial ends with Romulus being found guilty and sentenced to death, leaving his family and the Rim Dominion in a state of shock and grief.
The chapter follows Lysander as he attends the farewell ceremony of Romulus au Raa, the Sovereign of the Rim Dominion, who has chosen to die rather than face impeachment and potential war. Romulus says goodbye to his family, including his children and wife, Dido, and then walks naked into the frozen sulfur waste to reach the Dragon Tomb, a monument to his ancestors. Despite the extreme cold, Romulus perseveres, driven by his will and determination to prove his strength. He ultimately falls short of reaching the tomb, but his death serves as a testament to his honor and courage. The chapter ends with Seraphina, Romulus's daughter, whispering the phrase "Pulvis et umbra sumus," meaning "We are dust and shadow," as the Raa family departs, leaving Romulus's body behind. Lysander is left to ponder the weight of Romulus's question to him, to become the echo of great men and save the worlds from war.
Lysander visits Dido, the wife of the late Romulus au Raa, as she grieves his loss. He expresses his condolences and reveals his desire to join her war against the Rising. Despite Seraphina's initial skepticism, Lysander persuades Dido by sharing Romulus's last words to him, emphasizing the importance of unity among the Golds and the need for a shepherd to guide them. Lysander offers to serve as an emissary to his godfather, Cassius's father, to forge an alliance between the Rim and the Core against the Reaper. Dido, impressed by Lysander's words, agrees to send him to the Core with a cohort of her best warriors, marking the beginning of a new alliance and a potential path towards unity among the Golds.
Ephraim, a skilled thief, is flying a ship with two high-value children, Pax and Electra, after rescuing them from the Syndicate. However, the ship is being flown remotely by the Syndicate, and Ephraim realizes they are being taken back to the Syndicate's facility. With the ship's controls dead and communications offline, Ephraim decides to take drastic action. He sets a thermal grenade to detonate near the ship's engines, hoping to cripple the ship and prevent it from reaching the Syndicate. As the grenade explodes, the ship plummets towards the ground, and Ephraim prepares for a crash landing, knowing it's a one-way ticket. The chapter ends with Ephraim's fate uncertain, as the ship careens out of control towards the cityscape.
Darrow stands alone, having chosen to abandon his family and pursue his duty as a leader, leaving Sevro and the others to return to Luna and rescue his son, Pax. He boards the Ash Lord's shuttle, accompanied by a few remaining Howlers, including Colloway, Tongueless, Thraxa, and Rhonna, as well as the Gold prisoners they rescued from Deepgrave. Apollonius, the notorious war criminal, is left behind, his bomb deactivated, and Darrow sets his sights on Venus, determined to turn the tide of the war. As he flies away from his friends and family, Darrow feels lost and empty, but also a sense of rage and determination, welcoming the return of the Reaper, his alter ego. He sets aside his role as a father and husband, embracing his duty as a leader, and prepares to face the challenges ahead, driven by his desire for revenge and his need to protect his people.