Chapter 30: Lysander: Edge of Glory

Summary

• Lysander encounters Diomedes in the broken cityscape of Sector Six, where Diomedes is spending time with his Dustwalkers.
• Discussion revolves around the strategic situation, with concerns about their territory holdings and an enemy referred to as 'the worm' in Sector One.
• Diomedes questions whether they can maintain control over their new territory and he's informed that Victra is being handled by Ajax, and allies are close to surrounding the Hollows.
• Rhone, a subordinate of Lysander, interrupts with a report from Ajax, urging Lysander to receive the information in person, suggesting serious news.
• Lysander witnesses a fight through a visual feed where one of their own, Ajax, is betrayed and killed in an ambush by Victra and her allies.
• Victra, after defeating Ajax, performs a brutal victory gesture which profoundly affects Lysander.
• Lysander inquires about the fate of Cicero and learns of another commander, Apollonius, who retreated strategically. There's speculation over the identity of Victra's ally.
• There is suspicion that Thraxa au Telemanus is the person aiding Victra, confirmed by Diomedes's observations despite never having met Thraxa.
• The chapter discusses the consequences of the betrayal, revealing a setback in the strategic plan and the loss of the advantageous position.
• Lysander is told that while they can hold two sectors, they must now reassess and tackle the situation more cautiously due to the recent developments.
• Diomedes shows a sign of respect for the fallen Ajax, acknowledging the loss and the need to adapt their tactics.
• Rhone suggests the next steps should focus on containment of Victra and her forces before expanding further, though Lysander is left reflecting on the broader implications and cost of the conflict.
• Disheartened, Lysander mourns the losses they've experienced, voicing his frustration and disillusionment with their current strategy, which Rhone coldly characterizes as the nature of war.