Darrow reflects on his struggle to remember his son Pax and the rest of his family during war.
He recounts bringing home a glass globe from the Himalayas as a memento for Pax, before mentioning recovering in the Raa bunker after an injury.
After coming out of the Raa bunker, Darrow describes the destruction of the Garter, but notes signs of survival and aid from other factions like the Daughters.
Diomedes, Darrow's companion, expresses his willingness to cooperate, but not subservience towards the Daughters who are helping survivors.
Darrow meets Sevro, who informs him about the reluctance of Athena and Volga to engage Lysander's forces.
Sevro, though not fond of Cassius, is emotionally affected by his death and resolves revenge on Lysander.
Sevro confronts Diomedes about not killing Lysander while mocking the newly recognized Hegemon of the Dominion, Gaia.
Diomedes and Darrow discuss the dire food situation due to the destruction of croplands and alliances with Mars against Lune.
A meeting is called to sign a new covenant, an uneasy agreement that remains suspect of not being honored but needed for unity against the Society.
A new alliance is formed with terms that leave no one entirely satisfied, but is necessary for the greater war effort.
A diplomatic exchange occurs, and despite misgivings about the future, Darrow emphasizes the importance of trust among allies.
A speech by Aurae highlights the contrast between the leaders' drive for control and the combined path of the gathered allies, which promises growth after destruction.
Darrow exchanges final words with Volga and Lyria, who acknowledge Cassius's impact and the need to continue the fight in his honor.
Darrow reflects on the assembled fleet's lack of cohesion and the challenges of uniting them into an effective force against the Society.
An unexpected encounter with a stealth ship, the Archimedes, occurs as they leave Io.
Exploring the quiet Archimedes, Darrow mourns his lost friends and confronts the loss of Cassius in the ship's cargo hold.
Sevro finds memorabilia in Cassius's room, prompting reflection on their past and a discussion about continuing with Cassius's recordings.
Darrow sends a silent message to Virginia and Pax, affirming his love and determination to win the war.