Chapter 8: The Council of Captains

The captains and officers convene aboard Pharaoh to assess the failed Rustam mission. Bassander Lin condemns the losses and insists on returning to regroup with the 437th after receiving news that Tyras has fallen with millions dead. Reports from Switch, Ilex, and Valka confirm the trap of SOMs controlled by the Painted Man.

Otavia Corvo refuses to risk her mercenary ship in a fleet action, while Crim and others argue Imperial scrutiny is unlikely. As tempers rise, Hadrian interrupts, revealing he recovered the Painted Man’s personal terminal, likely containing ledgers and locations such as the rumored March Station. Ilex agrees to attempt access.

Lin demands the device be delivered to Imperial command, but Hadrian urges pressing the lead now, arguing prior sacrifices demand action. Seeking support, he finds Jinan wavering; she proposes telegraphing the data and holding position for orders. Lin agrees, while Otavia reiterates she will not accompany any return, prompting Lin to threaten severance.

The meeting ends with a tentative plan: transmit and await guidance rather than immediately withdraw or advance blindly. Afterward, Jinan confronts Hadrian in the corridor; he accuses her of enabling Lin. Their argument exposes grief over Ghen’s death and fear of the Painted Man’s capabilities.

Hadrian confesses the homunculus wore Ghen’s face, explaining why he killed it. Though Jinan offers comfort, Hadrian pulls away, choosing solitude as the fleet holds position and waits for orders.