Chapter 12: The Julii
Contains spoilersOverview
Darrow confronts a restrained Victra, trading blunt truths about betrayal, loyalty, and choice. Victra rejects pity, demands revenge and healing, and admits she would have protected Darrow despite his origins. By freeing her and promising the Carver’s aid, Darrow secures Victra’s commitment to the Sons against Antonia, the Jackal, and Roque.
Summary
Darrow finds Victra cuffed to a medical cot in Tinos, watching Society propaganda about a dam attack and a flattering profile of Roque. They exchange sharp banter. Victra dismisses performative apology, arguing it is fair for Reds to fight back against Gold oppression and refusing to indulge noble outrage.
Victra asks why Darrow saved her from Attica; he answers that she is his friend and reveals Trigg died doing it. She recounts Antonia showing her Darrow’s Carving and taunting her, but says origins do not matter—only deeds and truth—and that she would have protected him. When she presses why he confided in Mustang but not her, Darrow admits fear, apologizes, and invites Victra to join the Sons of Ares.
Darrow offers Victra a real choice. Victra rejects talk of meaning, confessing trauma and a need to sleep without drugs, forget the Jackal’s cruelty, and take revenge on Antonia, Adrius, and Roque. Darrow warns revenge is hollow; she replies she feels hollow. He promises the Carver will arrive in three days to mend her spine and restore her mobility.
To prove trust, Darrow unlocks Victra’s restraints. He affirms people can choose who they become, citing Tactus, Ragnar, and Sevro, and vows unwavering loyalty and brotherhood. Victra solemnly takes his hand, accepting his offer. “Welcome to the Sons of Ares.”
Who Appears
- Victra au Julii
Captured Gold heiress; bitter, traumatized; demands revenge; accepts Darrow’s offer and joins the Sons
- Darrow of Lykos
Protagonist; reconciles with Victra, frees her, promises Mickey’s help, and recruits her to Ares
- Antonia au Severus-Julii
Victra’s sister and tormentor; showed Darrow’s Carving; now a prime target of Victra’s revenge
- Adrius au Augustus (the Jackal)
Archenemy who caged Victra and destroyed House Julii; another of her vowed targets
- Roque au Fabii
Society darling on news; former friend turned foe, included in Victra’s list for vengeance
- Trigg
Fallen Gray rescuer whose death during Victra’s breakout underscores the cost of saving her
- Mickey (the Carver)
Bio-sculptor expected in three days to mend Victra’s spine and restore her mobility