Chapter 32: Virginia: Parley

Summary

• Lysander joins Virginia in a desolate war-torn setting on the moon for a secret meeting.
• Despite the widespread war, the leaders of the armies have convened under the agreement of a traditional parley.
• The parley involves a formal exchange of honorifics and gestures, as well as analog audio cords to communicate privately.
• Both characters recall their shared history and lineage, including their ancestors and personal past.
• Lysander reveals he carries Darrow's sword, which he took after injuring him in combat.
• Virginia warns Lysander that one victory does not make him a warlord, emphasizing Darrow's historical success and prowess.
• Lysander claims he has the advantage in the war, having captured part of Virginia's troops and gained control over a substantial portion of the moon.
• Virginia counters, indicating her resolve and the strength of her forces, including the Rat Legion's seasoned warriors.
• Lysander and Virginia trade verbal jabs, judging each other's character and strategies.
• The discussion turns to a potential solution to end the current conflict on the moon.
• Lysander proposes Virginia withdraw from Phobos with all her forces in exchange for safe passage to Mars and the sparing of encircled troops.
• In return, Virginia must not sabotage the docks or leave behind traps and must relinquish codes to defense systems.
• Lysander aims to use the deal to bolster his image, showing that he can be a favorable investment and to eventually challenge Atalantia.
• Virginia negotiates for additional terms, asking for Oracles and offering a Telemanus in exchange.
• The conversation concludes with Lysander requesting Ajax's head, which had been taken as a trophy.
• Virginia's friends and commanders express a range of emotions about the deal with Lysander, with some in favor and others against.
• The plan to empower Lysander is debated, considering his reliance on alliances and potential to take down Atalantia.
• Virginia reaffirms her conviction in their cause and the decision made to strike the deal with Lysander is supported by the group.
• Virginia discloses to Victra that as part of the deal, they must also return the head of Ajax.
• The chapter ends on a lighter note with the arrival of Kavax and a familial reunion.