Chapter 38: Darrow: Tabula Rasa
Summary
- Regulus ag Sun, known as Quicksilver, is cautious due to his time with the Sons of Ares and scans Darrow's ship thoroughly as he arrives.
- Darrow is greeted by Matteo, his influential former teacher who has helped shape him into who he has become.
- They exchange a warm welcome, and Matteo expresses his condolences for Darrow's losses, making Darrow feel seen and understood.
- Matteo mourns those dear to Darrow, acknowledging each person's unique contribution and loyalty, prompting Darrow's raw emotional response.
- Sevro interrupts the mourning, wanting to focus on their reason for visiting – to obtain metal resources from Matteo and Quicksilver.
- Inside Quicksilver's study, a holographic Luna is displayed with unrest visible, showcasing lowColors' revolution and elite suffering.
- Quicksilver shares his lack of satisfaction in the plight of Luna's residents and questions his past actions.
- Sarcasm and tension underscore the conversation between Sevro and Quicksilver, who have a complicated relationship.
- Quicksilver displays some admiration for Darrow, recounting the challenges and nation-challenging acts he has managed to pull off.
- Darrow is questioned about his time since Mercury, revealing he was marooned and has learned perspective.
- In the discussion with Quicksilver and Matteo, Darrow appeals for support in the war, emphasizing the dire situation of the Republic.
- Quicksilver reveals skepticism about the people's will to fight, showing disillusionment with the collective human spirit.
- As the need for Quicksilver's resources becomes pressing, he admits to having something else instead of military aid.
- Quicksilver presents his "dream," a generation ship called Tabula Rasa, aimed at creating a new society without the Color hierarchy.
- The ship is meant to be a fresh start for humanity, with children depicted without sigils, symbolizing no division of Colors.
- Sevro feels betrayed by Quicksilver's creation of the generation ship instead of providing aid, calling him and Matteo cowards.
- Despite the conflict, Darrow accepts the reality and invites Quicksilver to showcase his new world, trying to understand his friend's choice.