Chapter 43: Lysander: Fragment of Immensity

Summary

• Lysander reflects on being invited to the bridge of the Dustmaker by Diomedes, interpreting it as a sign of partnership for Rim and Core unity.
• He appreciates the allowances made for his Praetorians to use the Rim ship's facilities and notes the crew's sense of purpose.
• Lysander admires the efficiency of the Rim ship's operation, which runs without AI and relies on billions of humans working in concert.
• He criticizes the Republic’s effect on their harmonious system and blames Darrow for the existence of threats like Volsung Fá.
• Upon entering the bridge, Lysander utilizes the Mind's Eye technique to heighten his senses but is overwhelmed by the intense presence of a Gold woman in armor, Ophelia au Zagra.
• Ophelia acknowledges Lysander's previous combat success and expresses her desire for him to continue performing admirably.
• Diomedes, wearing a command-assisting device called the Cestus, orchestrates a battle simulation with his crew using holograms.
• Diomedes expresses his belief that it's better to lead a smaller, agile force than to be burdened with commanding a large armada, referencing Helios's current covert operations.
• Lysander and Diomedes enjoy a quiet meal together, discussing the new threat of the Ascomanni and the state of the ongoing conflict.
• Diomedes reveals that Helios drew first blood against the Ascomanni and is probing their defenses while Lysander ponders Darrow's role in the growing conflict.
• Diomedes and Lysander discuss the Rim warriors' perception of the Praetorians and the lasting grudges from past battles.
• In a personal space of Helios's, the discussion turns to the Ascomanni, their history, culture, and the threat they pose with newly acquired Core ships.
• Diomedes emphasizes that the Ascomanni adapt quickly and should not be underestimated, having plundered skilled individuals from various colors to serve their needs.
• Diomedes explains their strategy against the Ascomanni, intending to use the gravitational pull of Jupiter's moons for a stealth attack with minimal engine use.
• Lysander learns that the upcoming battle at Kalyke is crucial, and Diomedes wants him on the bridge to symbolize the potential unity between the Rim and Core.