Chapter 44: Lysander: Grapes and Iron

Summary

• Lysander observes the Kalyke moon and plans for upcoming conflict at Io.
• Receives a hail from Consul Lux (Helios), a hologram exchange confirms identities and hints at previous successful skirmish by Helios.
• Initial excitement is tempered by a realization that Lysander's own fleet is delayed.
• Discussion of enemy forces reveals they are well-equipped and possess code-breaking technology.
• Dido, another key player, expresses concern for the besieged Sungrave and her children there.
• Helios orders the contraction of the fleet to prepare for the battle and reassumes command of the Dustmaker ship from Diomedes.
• As Helios boards the Dustmaker, his injured appearance and trophies are noted, highlighting recent combat.
• Helios's eagerness to resume command is depicted despite his physical injuries.
• Lysander notices an oddity—Helios carries a kitari with an iron pommel, a peculiar detail.
• Helios secures command by blood and bone marrow test in the Cestus, quoting Homer's Iliad.
• Strange behavior and a fearful moment during the Cestus ceremony raise suspicions in Lysander.
• Diomedes challenges Helios with a code phrase after other security protocols seemed normal.
• Helios responds correctly but his identity is physically scrutinized by Diomedes who reveals a mismatched arm.
• The chapter ends with the revelation that the man controlling the Dustmaker is not truly Helios au Lux.