Contents
V. Rationalism — Nico
Overview
Nico returns from a performative family trip with Max, checks on a narcoleptic Gideon, and finds Dalton unexpectedly moving back in. After recent conflict, Nico and Libby share wine, apologize, and reassert their alliance. Their vulnerable conversation ends with Libby asking if they are “supposed to be” and Nico agreeing, realigning them before the planned experiment.
Summary
After enduring Max Wolfe’s father’s entrepreneurial posturing in the Berkshires, Nico departs with a vial meant to help Gideon and returns to the Alexandrian house. He slips through Grand Central’s wards, announces himself, and heads upstairs, briefly colliding with a newly swaggering Dalton Ellery, who is moving into Parisa’s former room.
Nico discovers Gideon asleep over The Tempest in the reading room. Tristan arrives, implying he often wakes Gideon, and references Gideon’s narcolepsy. Nico carries Gideon to bed, quietly acknowledging Tristan’s help and noting Dalton’s odd demeanor.
Seeking to resolve tensions, Nico visits Libby by the fire. Their recent failed magical attempt and Nico’s harsh words linger, but they trade apologies, admitting they’ve lost their rhythm. Nico insists he is on Libby’s side and urges her to lean on someone, if not him.
They drink Tristan’s wine and speak candidly. Nico confesses he missed Libby and doesn’t want their bond severed, while Libby admits that during her year away—even amid Ezra’s betrayal—she sometimes thought having Nico would have made things better. They joke, but the tone turns sincere as trust begins to mend.
Finally, Libby asks whether, if multiversal versions of them exist, they are “supposed to be” together. Nico answers yes, sealing a renewed emotional alliance that steadies them for the impending experiment and reframes their partnership’s stakes.
Who Appears
- Nico de VaronaReturns from Max’s family trip with a vial for Gideon; tends to Gideon; reconciles with Libby; affirms they might be “meant” across worlds.
- Libby RhodesDrinks by the fire; apologizes and rebuilds trust with Nico; shares pain over the past year; asks if they’re supposed to be together.
- Gideon DrakeFound asleep over a book; implied narcolepsy persists; silently anchors Nico’s concern and choices.
- Tristan CaineArrives to wake Gideon; acknowledges Gideon’s condition; supplies the wine; distracted but supportive.
- Dalton ElleryReturns to the house, moving into Parisa’s former room; noticeably changed demeanor, surprising Nico.
- Max WolfeDrives Nico back from the Berkshires; jokes about Gideon; helps Nico maintain cover with his father.