Chapter 57: Lyria: Lamps in the Storm

Summary

• The chapter focuses on Lyria's perspective while descending towards Europa on board the ship Archimedes.
• Lyria goes to the ship's brig to interrogate an Obsidian prisoner, Sigurd, inquiring about Volga Fjorgan.
• Sigurd, displaying a moderate knowledge of the situation, discusses Volga's rumored status, indicating she has a high standing among the Obsidians.
• Sigurd confirms that Volga has military command over Callisto, having been given soldiers to aid the Volk.
• Lyria is skeptical of Volga becoming a war commander for Fá and believes Volga would not support the Obsidian cause.
• The chapter reveals apprehension over the Obsidian advance on Europa, with cities like Io and Callisto suffering from attacks.
• Lyria encounters Aurae, who is comforting Pink children refugees with stories of safety in the Deep beneath Europa's seas.
• The narrative shows Lyria's inner turmoil, questioning the safety of everything known, including her friend Volga.
• Lyria reflects on her own and others' roles in recent events, struggling with guilt and the harsh nature of their reality.
• Sigurd has no more information, leading Lyria to leave the conversation to observe the turbulent descent and think of Europa's scenery.
• As Lyria watches Europa's stormy sea, a massive sea creature emerges and submerges again, sparking her sense of wonder.
• Sevro, a character known for his stealthy presence, surprises Lyria and engages in a conversation about leviathans and the ruling house of Europa.
• Sevro and Lyria discuss riding mythical and dangerous creatures, reflecting on dangers and loyalties in the universe they inhabit.
• They have a tense exchange about their past actions and current feelings, with Lyria processing the fact that Volga might be involved in the war.
• Sevro probes Lyria about her involvement with his family and her feelings about Volga's actions, suggesting even friends can disappoint.
• The conversation pivots to Sevro's reluctance to take his father's position as Ares, expressing his sense of predetermined fate and the burden of legacy.
• Lyria contemplates her own father's decisions, the complexity of judgment, and the idea of prisons versus keys.
• Sevro leaves the conversation open-ended, implying they'll only speak again if Lyria remains useful.