Chapter 5. Before: Luca

In a memory before the current conflict, Luca works in Philosopher Rhea Vitrasian’s theater, repeatedly solving orbital equations until his wrist aches. When Luca suggests focusing on archives or medical trials, Vitrasian insists that he is there to learn, reinforcing her exacting standards and the value of fundamentals.

Luca reflects on how he fought to become Vitrasian’s novice despite his uncle Kastor’s plans for a military path. He recalls seeing Vitrasian challenge Magistrates at tribunal and later balancing legion duties with study, while learning the first language reserved for temple elites. Luca also notes Vitrasian’s distance from religious norms, which draws suspicion in the Citadel.

Vitrasian reminds Luca of his impending public introduction at a feast, orchestrated by the ailing Kastor to position Luca as heir and faction figure. She warns him to respect the gods publicly, even if belief is weak, framing the Forum as a strategic game. Luca resents the idea but listens.

To illustrate political infiltration, Vitrasian describes a parasitic beetle that mimics bees to infiltrate a hive, surviving on its riches before emerging as both child and enemy. She contrasts fickle divine favor with the constancy of science, declaring science to be truth and a reliable guide for Luca’s ambitions.

Vitrasian argues that Luca’s lack of Citadel upbringing is an asset: he represents new possibility as a faction leader’s heir, capable of disrupting stagnant power. While speaking, she nervously burns a small scroll in a bronze bowl, hinting at hidden communications she does not share. The lesson ends as it began—Vitrasian orders Luca to work the sequence again, reinforcing discipline and secrecy before his debut.