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The book is set in a dystopian future where humanity is divided into color-coded castes, with the ruling Gold class holding power over the lower-colored classes. The story follows Darrow, a 16-year-old Red who lives on Mars and works as a Helldiver, extracting valuable resources from the planet. Darrow's life is turned upside down when his wife, Eo, is executed for singing a forbidden song, and he is forced to fake his own death to avoid execution. He is rescued by a group of rebels known as the Sons of Ares, who seek to overthrow the Gold class. Darrow undergoes a transformation, known as the Carving, to make him appear as a Gold, and infiltrates the Institute, a prestigious academy for the Gold class. As Darrow navigates the complexities of Gold society, he must confront his own identity and the moral implications of his actions, all while working to bring down the Society from within. Throughout the book, Darrow faces numerous challenges and conflicts, including brutal battles, power struggles, and personal betrayals. Ultimately, he emerges as a leader and a symbol of hope for the lower-colored classes, but not without scars and a deep understanding of the true cost of his actions. The book is a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of power, rebellion, and the human condition.
A powerful and intimidating figure, a Gold, addresses a gathering of 1,200 students, proclaiming the superiority of the Gold class and the necessity of claiming power and dominance through blood and sacrifice. He belittles the idea of equality and promises that only those fit for power will survive the trials ahead. However, the narrative is interspersed with the thoughts of a Red, who disagrees with the Gold's ideology and hints at a impending reckoning, suggesting that none of the Golds will ultimately survive. The tone is set for a conflict between the powerful Gold class and the oppressed Red class, with the narrator implying a desire for revolution and revenge.
The protagonist, Darrow, a 16-year-old Helldiver from a clan of Red earth diggers, is working deep in the mines of Mars, extracting valuable helium-3. He is part of a crew led by his uncle, Narol, who is cautious and often at odds with Darrow's bold and reckless approach to mining. As Darrow works to meet the quota and potentially win the coveted Laurel, a prize that brings food and luxuries to the winning clan, he is forced to wait for a scan crew to check for a potential gas pocket, which could be disastrous if not handled properly. Frustrated with the delay, Darrow decides to take matters into his own hands, risking his life to manually scan the gas pocket, despite the warnings and objections from his crew members. His actions are driven by his desire to provide for his wife, Eo, and his clan, and to prove himself as a capable and brave Helldiver.
Darrow returns to his township after a long day of mining, where he is greeted as a hero by his fellow Reds for his daring stunt in the mines. He exchanges banter with a Gamma Helldiver, Dago, and later meets up with his wife, Eo, in their small home carved into the rock wall of the township. Eo is secretive about her activities, but tends to Darrow's burn injury and teases him about surprises she has planned for the evening. The chapter also explores the societal hierarchy of the colony, with the ruling class, the Golds, emphasizing obedience and sacrifice from the lower-colored classes, including the Reds. The narrative is interspersed with Darrow's thoughts on his life, his love for Eo, and the struggles of the Red pioneers on Mars.
The chapter describes the festivities of the Laureltide dance, where the Reds gather to celebrate and socialize. Darrow, the protagonist, is greeted as a hero for his recent actions in the mines, and his family and friends are eager to celebrate his potential win of the Laurel, a prestigious award that brings food and luxuries to the winning clan. However, as the night progresses, Darrow's uncle Narol becomes increasingly bitter and confrontational, leading to a physical altercation between the two. Meanwhile, Eo, Darrow's wife, seems apprehensive and unenthusiastic about the celebration, and Darrow is unsure why. The chapter also introduces the arrival of the Tinpots, the ruling class's enforcers, who bring news of the Laurel's winner. In a surprising twist, the Laurel is awarded to Gamma, not Darrow's clan, leading to disappointment and frustration among the Reds.
The chapter explores the aftermath of the Laurel ceremony, where Darrow's clan was denied the award despite their hard work. Eo, Darrow's wife, tries to lift his spirits by taking him to a hidden garden, a secret place on Mars that is forbidden to Reds. The garden is a beautiful and surreal environment, filled with strange creatures and plants that Darrow has only seen in pictures. As they spend time together in the garden, Eo reveals her desire for Darrow to take a stand against the Society and fight for the freedom of the Reds. She believes that Darrow has the potential to be a leader and inspire others to join the cause. However, Darrow is hesitant and fearful of the consequences, preferring to focus on providing for his family and living a safe life. The conversation between the two reveals the deep-seated differences in their values and aspirations, with Eo's passion for revolution and freedom clashing with Darrow's more pragmatic and cautious approach. The chapter ends with the couple's return to the Webbery, where they are confronted by an unknown voice, likely a representative of the ruling class, who has discovered their secret excursion to the forbidden garden.
Darrow and his wife Eo are caught by the Tinpots for secretly visiting a forbidden garden, and as punishment, they are to be flogged in public. Despite Darrow's initial reluctance to resist, he eventually surrenders to avoid further escalation. However, during the flogging, Eo begins to sing a forbidden song, a powerful act of defiance that captivates the crowd and the attention of the ArchGovernor, Nero au Augustus. The song is a lamentation of the oppression of the Reds and a call to remember the struggles of the past. The ArchGovernor, intrigued by Eo's bravery, allows her to finish the song, but ultimately sentences her to death by hanging. The chapter ends with Darrow, gagged and helpless, witnessing Eo's final moments, and the crowd's silence and fear in the face of the ArchGovernor's power.
The chapter revolves around the emotional and intense aftermath of Eo's execution. Darrow is consumed by grief and anger, and he decides to take a stand by reclaiming his wife's body and giving her a proper burial in a hidden location. He is aided by his sister and other women in the community, who keep his actions a secret. Meanwhile, Darrow's family and friends try to come to terms with their loss and the impending execution of Darrow himself, who has been sentenced to death for his actions. As Darrow prepares to meet his end, he reflects on the lessons he learned from Eo and the realization that his death will be in vain, contrary to Eo's wishes for him to live and fight for a better future. The chapter ends with Darrow's execution, but not before he begins to understand the true meaning of sacrifice and the impact of his actions on those around him.
Darrow, presumed dead after his public execution, awakens in an abandoned mine to find himself alive. He soon discovers that his uncle Narol had drugged him and faked his death to save his life. Darrow is then rescued by members of the Sons of Ares, a rebellious group, who reveal that their leader, Ares, has a mission for him. As Darrow navigates this new reality, he is introduced to Harmony, a mysterious and beautiful woman with a scarred face, and Ralph, a timid and ugly man. The group travels through hidden tunnels and eventually arrives at a secret location, where Darrow is to meet Dancer, the leader of the group. Throughout the journey, Darrow struggles to come to terms with his survival and the loss of his wife, Eo, and grapples with the idea of joining the Sons of Ares and their mission.
Darrow meets Dancer, the leader of the Sons of Ares, a rebellious group fighting against the Society. Dancer is a charismatic and mysterious figure with a fatherly smile, but also a menacing presence. He explains that the Sons of Ares aim to bring down the oppressive Gold class and reveal the truth about the Society's history. Dancer reveals that Eo's song has been broadcasted to the entire planet, and she has become a symbol of hope and resistance for the Reds. Dancer wants to recruit Darrow to join their cause, but Darrow is driven by a desire for vengeance against those responsible for Eo's death, particularly the ArchGovernor. Dancer suggests that Darrow's goals are too narrow and that he should aim higher. He then takes Darrow to a hidden location on the surface of Mars, where he experiences the sun and a city unlike anything he has ever seen, revealing the true extent of the Society's deception and oppression.
Darrow is taken by Dancer to a hidden location on the surface of Mars, where he discovers a city of unimaginable wealth and luxury, inhabited by the Gold and Silver classes. The city is a stark contrast to the harsh, barren environment that Darrow and his fellow Reds were led to believe was the reality of Mars. Dancer reveals to Darrow that the Society's history is built on lies and that the Reds have been enslaved for centuries to gather resources and terraform the planet. The true purpose of the Reds' labor is to support the luxurious lifestyle of the higher-colored classes, and Darrow comes to realize that his entire life has been a lie. Dancer explains the history of the Colonization and the Conquering, and how the Society was built on the backs of the Reds. Darrow is consumed by anger and a desire for revenge, and he begins to understand the true nature of the conflict between the Reds and the Golds. He asks Dancer what it will take to take back the planet, and Dancer's response is simple: "Blood." Darrow is left to grapple with the weight of this knowledge and the role he is being asked to play in the fight against the Society.
Darrow, still reeling from the revelation of the Society's lies and the true state of Mars, is tasked by Dancer with a new mission: to infiltrate the Gold class by undergoing a transformation, known as the Carving, that will make him appear as a Gold. Dancer takes Darrow to meet Mickey, a skilled Carver who can perform the procedure, in a seedy part of the city called the Bazaar. Mickey is initially hesitant and even hostile, but Dancer's persistence and the presentation of a valuable gift - a pair of Gold Sigils - eventually persuade him to consider the request. The chapter ends with Mickey agreeing to take on the challenge of transforming Darrow into a Gold, a process that will require significant physical and psychological changes. Darrow is unsure if he can go through with the transformation, fearing that he will lose himself in the process, but Dancer is convinced that it is the key to bringing down the Society from within.
Darrow's transformation into a Gold is discussed with Mickey, a skilled Carver, who is initially hesitant and skeptical about the possibility of successfully altering Darrow's appearance and abilities to match those of a Gold. Dancer reveals the plan for Darrow to infiltrate the Institute and rise through the ranks to become a powerful figure, allowing him to carry out Ares' goals. Mickey warns Darrow that he is not suited for the challenges of the Institute and that the Golds are born to dominate, but Darrow demonstrates his unique skills and abilities, solving a complex puzzle on Mickey's device, which leaves Mickey impressed and willing to consider the proposal. The chapter ends with Dancer and Mickey discussing the price for the transformation, as Darrow takes a step closer to becoming a Gold and embarking on his mission to bring down the Society from within.
Darrow undergoes a transformation, known as the Carving, to make him appear as a Gold, the ruling class. The process is agonizing and involves extensive physical and psychological changes, including the installation of a subdermal datachip, replacement of his eyes with golden ones, and reinforcement of his bones. Mickey, the Carver, pushes Darrow to his limits, testing his strength and endurance. Harmony, a member of the Sons of Ares, trains Darrow using a concentraction machine, which simulates intense physical activities, and he rapidly grows stronger. As Darrow's body changes, he begins to feel a sense of detachment from his past self and struggles with the moral implications of his transformation. He is torn between his desire for revenge against the Golds and his growing sense of identity as a Gold himself. The chapter ends with Darrow's transformation nearly complete, and he is ready to embark on his mission to infiltrate the Institute and bring down the Society from within.
Darrow continues his transformation into a Gold, learning the intricacies of Gold behavior, mannerisms, and culture from Matteo, a Pink who was formerly a slave for carnal pleasures. Matteo teaches Darrow how to eat like a Gold, use the correct utensils, and control his bodily functions during meals. Darrow struggles to adapt to his new identity, feeling like he's losing himself in the process. Dancer, his mentor, reminds him that he's playing a part and that his true identity remains unchanged. Darrow is tasked with learning to dance and is warned that he will be thrown into a challenging situation, akin to being tossed into a nest of baby vipers, when he attends the Institute. Dancer emphasizes that Darrow's mission is not just about seeking revenge, but about fighting for Eo's dream and his people's freedom. Darrow grapples with the moral implications of his actions and the fear of being discovered, but ultimately, he's driven by a desire to fulfill his mission and make a difference.
Darrow continues his transformation into a Gold, learning the intricacies of Gold behavior and culture from Matteo, a Pink. He demonstrates exceptional skill in performing the five form dances of the Aureate, particularly the Polemides, which has a nostalgic feel reminiscent of the illegal Reaping Dance. However, his impressive display sparks Matteo's concern, as he questions whether Darrow is truly a former Red or if he was born into the Gold class. Darrow reassures Matteo of his origins, but the encounter reveals a crack in the trust between the Sons of Ares. As Darrow prepares to infiltrate the Institute, he researches the Gold dances and discovers the true nature of the Polemides, a dance of war taught to young Golds. He watches a holo of Golds in battle, which leaves him feeling intimidated and uncertain about his mission to destroy them. Meanwhile, Dancer informs Darrow that their hackers have successfully changed his name to Darrow au Andromedus in the Board of Quality Control's cloud. Darrow then begins his training in horse riding, a essential skill for a Gold, but struggles to master it, earning the mockery of a Gold girl who witnesses his ineptitude.
Darrow undergoes a series of tests as part of his admission process to the Institute, a prestigious academy for the Gold class. The tests assess his physical and mental abilities, pushing him to his limits. Despite the challenges, Darrow performs well, showcasing his unique skills and strengths. He also encounters other Golds, including Cassius, a charming and arrogant young man, and a mysterious girl who whistles a familiar tune that reminds Darrow of his past. As Darrow navigates the testing process, he begins to understand the complexities of Gold society and the importance of patronage and apprenticeships. With the help of his mentor, Matteo, Darrow starts to envision his potential future as a Gold and the possibilities that come with it, including the chance to become a powerful figure and exact revenge on those who wronged him.
Darrow, now transformed into a Gold, receives his test results and learns he has passed the Quality Control examination, allowing him to attend the prestigious Institute. He says goodbye to his mentors, Dancer, Harmony, and Matteo, and boards a shuttle to the Institute, where he meets other Gold students, including Julian and Sevro. Upon arrival, they are greeted by ArchGovernor Nero au Augustus, who delivers a speech emphasizing the superiority of the Gold class and the importance of sacrifice and hardship in maintaining their power. Augustus's words are laced with lies and propaganda, and Darrow struggles to contain his anger, particularly when the ArchGovernor mentions his wife, Eo, as an example of a martyr who gained power through her willingness to suffer hardship. Darrow is determined to play his part and infiltrate the Institute, but he is aware of the challenges and dangers that lie ahead.
Darrow, now fully transformed into a Gold, undergoes a series of tests and interviews as part of the Institute's admission process. He meets with various Proctors, each representing a different House, and participates in an immersion game designed to assess his abilities. After completing the tests, Darrow is escorted to a large room where the Draft takes place, a ceremony where the best and brightest students are chosen by the prestigious Houses. Darrow's statistics are displayed, revealing his rash and intuitive nature, as well as his exceptional loyalty and rage. The Drafters, comprising Praetors, Imperators, and other high-ranking officials, select students for their respective Houses. Despite initial reservations, Darrow is chosen tenth by House Mars, with the support of two influential advocates, including the renowned Rage Knight, Lorn au Arcos.
Darrow, now fully transformed into a Gold, navigates his new life at the Institute, a prestigious academy for the Gold class. He meets his classmates, including Cassius, Antonia, and Priam, and struggles to fit in with their high-society norms and expectations. Despite his initial awkwardness, Darrow attempts to build relationships with his peers, using his newfound knowledge of Gold behavior and culture to ingratiate himself. However, he also faces challenges, including Cassius's suspicion of his high test score and Antonia's open dislike of him. As Darrow settles into his new surroundings, he is torn between his loyalty to his former life as a Red and his growing sense of identity as a Gold. He grapples with the moral implications of his actions and the temptation of the luxurious lifestyle offered to him, all while clinging to the memories of his wife, Eo, and the life he left behind.
Darrow, now a transformed Gold, is put through a brutal test known as the Passage, where he is forced to fight another Gold, Julian, to the death for a spot in their class. The two are left naked and alone in a stone room, with the only way out being to claim the golden ring that signifies the winner. Despite initial hesitation and a sense of unease, Darrow is driven to win and ultimately kills Julian in a fierce and intense battle. The experience leaves Darrow traumatized and filled with regret, as he is forced to confront the harsh reality of the Golds' world and the true nature of their society.
Darrow, still reeling from the brutal test known as the Passage, is forced to confront the harsh reality of the Golds' world. He meets with other students who have also passed the test, including Roque, Antonia, and Cassius, and they all struggle to come to terms with what they have done. Darrow is particularly haunted by the memory of Julian, the boy he killed, and grapples with the guilt and shame of his actions. As they gather in the dining hall, Fitchner, their instructor, explains the true purpose of the Institute: to make them smart, cruel, wise, and hard, and to prepare them for the challenges of ruling the Society. He announces that their next task will be to go to war with the other Houses in the valley, using any means necessary to dominate and win. Darrow realizes that he must become the leader of House Mars, known as the Primus, in order to achieve his goals and bring down the Society from within. The chapter ends with Darrow reflecting on the challenges ahead and the moral implications of his actions, as he tries to reconcile his past and present selves.
The chapter begins with Fitchner, the Proctor of House Mars, waking the students for a morning run in the low-gravity environment of the Institute. As they run, Darrow takes in the beautiful scenery of the highlands, including the mossy hills, craggy peaks, and forests. However, he can't shake off the feeling of loneliness and emptiness without his wife, Eo. The students eventually reach a stone tower, Phobos Tower, where Fitchner explains the layout of the battlefield and the territory of House Mars. Darrow and Cassius, a charming and arrogant young Gold, notice a potential trap set by House Ceres and decide to investigate. They discover five Golds from House Ceres hiding in the grass, and a fight ensues. Darrow and Cassius emerge victorious, but not before Cassius showcases his impressive fighting skills, leaving Darrow feeling uneasy about his own secret. Fitchner and the Proctor of House Ceres, a beautiful woman, arrive, and they engage in a flirtatious conversation, discussing the rules of the game and the importance of conquest over killing. The chapter ends with Fitchner explaining to the students that the point of the game is not to kill each other, but to conquer and lead, and that the standard they will use to make slaves is a key part of their strategy. Darrow's comment about taking slaves to make one tribe out of twelve earns him attention and agitation from his peers, as well as a mock applause from Fitchner.
The chapter delves into the complexities of the Institute's game, where Darrow and his fellow Gold students must navigate the challenges of leadership, loyalty, and power struggles within their own House. The students of House Mars are tasked with working together to survive and thrive in the game, but their individual personalities and agendas often clash, leading to tension and conflict. Darrow, who has formed an alliance with Cassius, must balance his desire to lead and protect his House with the need to maintain a low profile and avoid drawing attention to himself. As the game progresses, the students begin to form tribes and alliances, and Darrow must navigate the intricate web of relationships and rivalries within his House. Meanwhile, the threat of external enemies and the pressure to perform well in the game create an atmosphere of tension and competition, forcing Darrow to confront the harsh realities of the Golds' world and the true nature of the Society. The chapter ends with the arrival of the first slave, a girl captured by Vixus, which sets the stage for further conflict and power struggles within House Mars.
The chapter describes the fragmentation of House Mars into four tribes, with Darrow's tribe consisting of lowDrafts who are loyal to him. Darrow's tribe has access to fire and food, which gives them an advantage over the other tribes. However, Titus's tribe is struggling with hunger and is becoming increasingly aggressive. Darrow's attempts to negotiate with Titus's tribe are met with hostility, and he is confronted by Vixus, who is cruel and violent. Darrow is forced to defend himself and delivers a brutal beating to Vixus, but manages to stop himself from killing him. The chapter ends with Darrow reflecting on his actions and the fear that is rising in his belly, as he realizes the true extent of his physical strength and the violence he is capable of unleashing.
Darrow's actions have sparked a civil war within House Mars, and he is now on the run with his loyal followers. They flee to their northern fort, where they regroup and plan their next move. Meanwhile, Titus, the leader of the opposing faction, wages a brutal war against House Ceres, using tactics such as raiding, enslaving, and torturing his enemies. Despite his violent methods, Titus's forces are inept at anything other than violence, and they struggle to achieve their goals. The Proctors, who are supposed to oversee the game, do not intervene to stop the violence, and the game continues to escalate. Darrow and his friends watch from a distance, horrified by Titus's actions, and Cassius becomes increasingly obsessed with taking down Titus, whom he believes killed his brother Julian. As the game reaches its twentieth day, Titus's actions become more and more desperate, and Darrow begins to feel the weight of his own moral compromises.
The chapter describes the ongoing conflict within House Mars, with Darrow's tribe struggling to survive amidst the chaos. Titus's tribe has taken over the castle, and he is treating the slaves, including Gold girls, brutally. Darrow and Cassius witness the abuse and are filled with anger and a desire for revenge. Fitchner, their instructor, appears and tells them that as long as Titus is not murdering the slaves, it is not his concern. Darrow and Cassius decide to take matters into their own hands and come up with a plan to stop Titus. The plan involves Darrow making a concession and apologizing to Antonia, which Cassius finds amusing. However, things take a turn when Quinn is captured by Titus's men while trying to deliver the apology, and Cassius is brutally beaten when he tries to challenge Titus. Despite his injuries, Cassius is determined to see the plan through and take down Titus. Darrow is resolute in his decision to proceed with the plan, and the chapter ends with a sense of anticipation and tension as the conflict escalates.
Darrow and Cassius, members of House Mars, are on a mission to gather information and disrupt their enemies. They encounter a girl from House Minerva, nicknamed Mustang, who is intelligent and cunning. Despite initial hostility, Darrow and Cassius manage to outsmart Mustang and her companions, with the help of their ally Sevro, also known as Goblin. Sevro, wearing a wolf pelt, kills two of the Minervan horsemen and helps Darrow and Cassius escape from the loch where they were trapped. The trio then devises a plan to infiltrate House Minerva's castle, using stolen horses and disguises to gain entry. Once inside, they create chaos and destruction, stealing the Minervan cook, June, and eventually escaping with the Minervan standard, a prized symbol of their House. The chapter ends with Darrow, Cassius, and Sevro riding back to their highlands, triumphant and laughing, having successfully executed their plan and gained an advantage in the game.
The chapter describes a chaotic and intense battle between Darrow's House Mars and Mustang's House Minerva. Darrow, Cassius, and Sevro lead a surprise attack on Mustang's forces, using stolen horses and clever tactics to gain the upper hand. The battle is fierce, with both sides suffering casualties, but ultimately, Darrow's forces emerge victorious. However, the victory is marred by the brutal treatment of Mustang's soldiers, including Pax, a massive and powerful warrior who is defeated by Darrow. The chapter also explores the moral implications of the game, with Mustang condemning the brutality and ruthlessness of Darrow's actions, while Darrow argues that the game is designed to teach them the harsh realities of power and leadership. The chapter ends with Mustang agreeing to leave the castle, but not before warning Darrow about a rival student, known as the Jackal, who is rumored to be even more cunning and ruthless than Darrow.
Darrow, now the leader of House Mars, grapples with the moral implications of his actions and the fate of Titus, who has been imprisoned for his brutal treatment of slaves. As Darrow tries to decide what to do with Titus, he begins to understand the depths of Titus's depravity and the reasons behind his actions. However, in a shocking revelation, Darrow discovers that Titus is not a Gold, but a Red, and that his actions were motivated by a desire for vengeance against those who wronged him. This discovery raises questions about the nature of the Society and the true identities of its members, and sets the stage for further conflict and power struggles within the Institute.
Darrow reflects on his decision to execute Titus, a fellow Red who was carved into a Gold, and grapples with the moral implications of his actions. He realizes that Titus's instability and actions put not only himself but also other carved Reds at risk, and that his execution was necessary to protect Eo's dream and the rebellion. Darrow then oversees the duel between Cassius and Titus, which ends in Titus's brutal death. Darrow is haunted by the memory of Titus and feels a sense of responsibility for his death. He later speaks with Fitchner, his Proctor, who reveals that the Institute is a testing ground for the Golds, where they learn to rule and lead through trials and mistakes. Fitchner also hints at a mysterious figure known as the Jackal, who is the ArchGovernor's son and a formidable opponent. Darrow claims a horse named Quietus, which reminds him of the stories he heard in his childhood, but later realizes that his comrades named the horse as a mockery of his role in Titus's death.
Darrow, the leader of House Mars, seeks an alliance with House Diana to counter the threat of House Minerva and the mysterious Jackal. He and his ally Sevro, also known as Goblin, travel to the Greatwoods to meet with Tamara, the leader of House Diana. Along the way, they discuss the game and the Proctors' intentions, with Sevro revealing his own troubled past and his reasons for being at the Institute. Upon arrival, Darrow and Sevro are met with hostility by Tamara's bodyguards, but Tamara herself is more open to negotiation. Darrow proposes an alliance, offering to help House Diana take down House Ceres in exchange for their help in defeating House Minerva. Tamara is intrigued by the offer, but is cautious, knowing that House Mars is prone to burning out quickly due to their aggressive tactics. Darrow must convince her that an alliance would be beneficial for both houses, and that together they can achieve more than they could alone.
Darrow, now the leader of House Mars, prepares for a duel against Pax, a powerful warrior from House Minerva, with the stakes being all the remaining slaves between the two houses. As the duel begins, Darrow uses his speed and agility to evade Pax's powerful attacks, but Pax's strength proves to be a formidable challenge. Meanwhile, Sevro and the Howlers, disguised as demons, emerge from the bellies of dead horses in the killing field and launch a surprise attack on House Minerva, catching them off guard. As the duel reaches its climax, Darrow gains the upper hand and defeats Pax, and the Howlers and their allies breach the gates of House Minerva, leading to the downfall of the house. Darrow then pursues Mustang, the leader of House Minerva, who has abandoned her horse and is hiding in a nearby wood. He finds her and decides to spare her, recognizing that she doesn't deserve to be treated like a slave or an animal, much like his wife Eo.
Darrow, now the leader of House Mars, has emerged victorious from the war with House Minerva and has trapped House Diana. However, his success is short-lived as he receives a visit from Lilath, an emissary from House Pluto, who reveals that the Jackal, a powerful and ruthless Gold, has put a mark on Darrow and will stop at nothing to kill him. Meanwhile, Darrow's friend Roque goes missing, and Lea, another friend, is killed by Antonia, a rival Gold, in a trap set for Darrow. Darrow is forced to hide and evade Antonia's henchmen, and when he finally reunites with his friends Cassius and Sevro, they vow to find Roque and avenge Lea's death. The group begins to search for Roque, but Sevro suggests taking a more aggressive approach against the Jackal, which puts him at odds with Cassius, who believes in honoring the codes of conduct and chivalry. Darrow agrees with Cassius, but the tension between Sevro and Cassius continues to simmer, threatening to boil over into violence.
Darrow is awakened in the middle of the night by Cassius, who reveals that he has discovered Darrow's secret: he killed Julian, Cassius's brother, in the Passage. Cassius is furious and feels betrayed, and the two engage in a fierce duel. Despite Darrow's skills, Cassius gains the upper hand and strikes Darrow with his ionBlade, leaving him severely injured and bleeding in the mud. As Darrow lies dying, he is consumed by pain and terror, and his thoughts turn to his loved ones and his past. He realizes that his actions have led to this moment, and that he may not survive to fulfill his mission to bring down the Society. The chapter ends with Darrow's life hanging in the balance, as he struggles to come to terms with the consequences of his actions.
Darrow, still recovering from his wounds, finds himself in a cave with Mustang, the former leader of House Minerva. She had saved his life and nursed him back to health. As they spend more time together, Darrow begins to open up to Mustang, sharing his feelings and emotions with her. However, their peaceful existence is disrupted by the arrival of two Oathbreakers, who attempt to harm Mustang. Darrow intervenes, saving her, and they decide to let the Oathbreakers live, tying them to a tree and leaving them to be found by other Houses. Later, Fitchner, Darrow's Proctor, appears, revealing that the ArchGovernor has been manipulating the game to ensure his son, the Jackal, wins. Fitchner warns Darrow to stay out of the Jackal's path and avoid confrontation with Houses Apollo and Jupiter, who are protecting the Jackal. However, Darrow has other plans, seeking to destroy Apollo and Jupiter's Houses and ultimately target the Jackal. Fitchner, realizing Darrow's intentions, provides him with antibiotics to help Mustang, who is dying from her illness. The chapter ends with Darrow receiving a package from Fitchner, containing his Pegasus necklace and Eo's haemanthus blossom, a symbol of hope and a reminder that he has allies who have not forsaken him.
Darrow, now the leader of a group of Oathbreakers, continues to gather followers and build his army. He and his troops, disguised in white and gray wolf cloaks, launch a surprise attack on House Mars's warband, taking down several highDrafts and freeing their slaves. Pax, a powerful warrior, is among those freed and joins Darrow's side. As they escape, Darrow reflects on his strategy and the need for speed and extreme prejudice in order to win. He also begins to form a bond with Mustang, the former leader of House Minerva, who has become a key ally. Meanwhile, Darrow sneaks into Castle Mars at night, using his charisma and cunning to evade detection, and carves a slingBlade into every door in the keep, creating a myth and rumor about his presence. He also sets fire to a brush pile in the shape of his slingBlade, sending a message to his former allies, including Sevro, that he is still alive and active.
Darrow, the leader of his army, plans to capture the ovens of House Ceres, which are crucial for the survival of the other Houses. He and his team, including Mustang, Pax, and Milia, devise a plan to infiltrate the castle by using a long tree beam as a ramp to climb over the walls. The plan is successful, and they manage to take control of the castle, freeing the slaves and capturing the Ceres students. However, the victory is short-lived, as Darrow soon discovers that one of his own soldiers, Tactus, has tried to rape a Ceres slave, Nyla. Darrow is faced with a difficult decision: punishing Tactus, which could lead to resentment among his soldiers, or letting him go, which would undermine his authority. Darrow decides to whip Tactus twenty times, but then surprises him by asking to be whipped as well, to demonstrate his commitment to his army and to show that he is willing to share the pain and responsibility for the actions of his soldiers. The chapter ends with Darrow's army looking at him with a newfound respect and understanding, as he has shown that he is willing to lead by example and take the consequences of his actions.
Darrow, now the leader of his army, continues his march south, aiming to ruin House Apollo. He meets with Novas, the Primus of House Apollo, who offers him a chance to join as a mercenary, but Darrow declines, pretending to be weak and stupid. Mustang, Darrow's ally, throws a snowball at Novas, and they part ways. Darrow's army proceeds, using scouts to gather information and staying close to the river to avoid open plains. They encounter Apollo's cavalry, but the deep snow protects them, and they manage to defeat the cavalry using buried pikes and archers. As they move closer to Apollo's castle, they face new challenges, including the loss of their horses, which they suspect was caused by the Proctors. Their food supplies are also sabotaged, with cracked soup pots and weevil-infested bread. Despite these setbacks, Darrow remains determined to take down House Apollo. That night, Mustang asks Darrow about his past and why Cassius betrayed him, and Darrow reveals that he killed Cassius's brother in the Passage. Later, while Darrow is out in the woods, someone pretends to be Mustang, luring him into a trap. Darrow realizes it's a trap and tries to escape, but Proctor Apollo appears, having used a ghostCloak to disguise himself. Apollo reveals that Darrow was a favorite puppet, but he's not dancing as he ought, and pushes Darrow out of a tree, where he falls into the snow, surrounded by the scent of fur and the sound of a roaring beast.
The chapter describes the fall of House Apollo, as Darrow and his army launch a surprise attack on the castle. Darrow's tactics involve fragmentation, using his army to raid Apollo's forts, foul their water supplies, and steal their weapons. He also uses psychological warfare, making Apollo's soldiers fear him and his army. Meanwhile, Proctor Apollo tries to interfere, using a jamField to disrupt Darrow's communications and threatening his friends. However, Darrow outsmarts him, using Sevro and Tactus to infiltrate the castle through the latrine holes. The battle is intense, with Darrow facing off against Apollo's Primus, Novas, and emerging victorious. The chapter ends with Darrow's army chanting his name, "Reaper," as they celebrate their victory and declare their intention to take down the next House, Jupiter.
Darrow, the leader of his army, sits with Fitchner, his Proctor, in the Apollo warroom, discussing the current state of the game and the Proctors' intentions. Fitchner reveals that Apollo has not left Olympus, indicating that the Proctors are still manipulating the game. Darrow learns that the ArchGovernor's son, the Jackal, is being favored to win, and that Fitchner's own career is at risk if he helps Darrow. Fitchner warns Darrow that he is walking into a trap set by a girl, but Darrow is confident in his army's loyalty and determination. As their conversation comes to a close, Darrow thanks Fitchner for his warning, but then attacks and incapacitates him, ensuring that Fitchner will not interfere with his plans to take down the Jackal and the other Proctors. With Fitchner neutralized, Darrow is one step closer to achieving his goal of winning the game and proving his worth as a Gold.
Darrow, the leader of his army, has successfully besieged and taken control of Jupiter's castle. He meets with Lucian, the leader of the Jupiter defenders, and agrees to spare their lives in exchange for their surrender. As Darrow's army celebrates their victory, he becomes drunk and orders his soldiers to do the same, creating a sense of camaraderie and relaxation. Meanwhile, Mustang arrives and is confused by Darrow's behavior, but she trusts him and leaves to find Pax as instructed. Darrow then has a conversation with Lucian, who opens up about his childhood and family expectations. As the night wears on, Darrow reveals his true intentions and shows Lucian a collection of golden sigil rings, which he has taken from the dead students. He notices that one of the rings is missing, a Pluto ring, and his eyes lock onto Lucian's, revealing a shocking truth about Lucian's identity.
Darrow, now the leader of his army, has successfully infiltrated Jupiter's castle and confronts the Jackal, who is revealed to be Lucian, a Gold who has been hiding in plain sight. The Jackal attempts to negotiate with Darrow, offering him a deal in exchange for his freedom, but Darrow refuses and demands that the Jackal cut off his own hand to escape. The Jackal, despite initial hesitation, begins to cut off his hand, showing a disturbing level of calmness and calculation. However, just as the Jackal is about to finish cutting off his hand, he grabs an ionBlade and stabs Pax, one of Darrow's closest friends, multiple times, killing him. The Jackal then activates a sonic detonator, causing chaos and destruction, and escapes. Darrow and his army, fueled by rage and a desire for revenge, chase after the Jackal, but are intercepted by Proctor Apollo, who attempts to stop them. Darrow engages in a fierce battle with Apollo, but is eventually overpowered and threatened with the safety of Mustang, a girl who has become important to him. Apollo reveals that they have taken Mustang and will harm her if Darrow does not lose his next encounter with the ArchGovernor's son. Enraged, Darrow kills Apollo and vows to take Olympus and rescue Mustang.
Darrow, now the leader of his army, launches a surprise attack on Olympus, the stronghold of the Proctors, seeking to rescue his ally Mustang and take down the corrupt Society. He and his soldiers, known as the Howlers, infiltrate the palace, taking down Proctors and their minions, and claiming their armor and weapons. Darrow faces off against Mercury, a skilled Proctor, and defeats him, then encounters Jupiter, a powerful and armored Proctor. Despite being outmatched, Darrow uses his cunning and the help of his shadow, Sevro, to wound Jupiter and gain the upper hand. As the battle rages on, Darrow's scouts discover the Proctors' armory, and his army gains access to advanced weapons and armor, shifting the tide of the battle in their favor. With Olympus on the brink of falling, Darrow and his army prepare to face the remaining Proctors and bring an end to the corrupt Society.
Darrow, now the leader of House Mars, returns to his home to find it under siege by the Jackal's forces. He and his army, the Howlers, launch a surprise attack on the besiegers, and Darrow is reunited with his friends Roque and Quinn. However, he soon discovers that Mustang, the girl he has fallen for, is actually the Jackal's twin sister and has been hiding her true identity from him. Feeling betrayed, Darrow realizes that Mustang has taken half of his army and is now a potential enemy. He decides to prepare for battle against her and the Jackal, knowing that the game has changed and he must adapt to survive. Meanwhile, Darrow also confronts Cassius, who declares a blood feud against him, and the two former friends part ways as sworn enemies. With his army and alliances in disarray, Darrow must now face his greatest challenge yet and determine the true cost of his victory.
Darrow, now the leader of his army, stands victorious after the fall of House Apollo and the capture of the Jackal. He is met with admiration and interest from the Director and other high-ranking officials, who offer him various opportunities and patronages. However, ArchGovernor Augustus approaches him with a proposal: to become one of his lancers and a member of his household in exchange for silence about the Jackal's involvement in the game. Darrow agrees, kneeling before Augustus and reciting the words of loyalty, forsaking his old life and identity to become a part of House Augustus. As he rises, he is met with a mix of reactions from the onlookers, and he knows that he has taken a significant step towards achieving his goals, but at a great personal cost.