Champion
Chapter 10: June 5
by Lu, MarieThe chapter opens with the protagonist reflecting on the time elapsed since key events—Thomas’s death, Day’s disappearance, and the Colonies’ bombardment of Denver. She is aboard the Elector’s plane with Anden and Ollie, en route to Ross City, Antarctica. The atmosphere is tense, with Anden preoccupied by calls about the battle. The protagonist observes the stark contrast between the Republic’s struggles and the seemingly advanced world outside the window, hinting at the technological and economic disparities between the Republic and Antarctica.
Anden reveals the Republic’s fragile dependence on Antarctic aid, which is contingent on brokering a treaty with the Colonies. The protagonist’s questions uncover the geopolitical stakes: Antarctica’s rivalry with Africa makes them a potential ally, but their patience with the Republic is wearing thin. Anden’s composed demeanor masks the pressure he faces, and a brief, lighthearted exchange between them reveals underlying tension and mutual admiration. The conversation underscores the precariousness of their mission and the weight of leadership.
As the plane descends, the protagonist is awestruck by Ross City’s futuristic skyline—color-shifting skyscrapers, transparent domes, and magnetic docking systems highlight Antarctica’s superiority. The landing process is seamless, but the group is immediately subjected to rigorous biohazard checks, a reminder of the Colonies’ plague. The protagonist notes the Antarcticans’ condescending attitude, particularly when they offer to replace the Republic’s jets. Anden’s diplomatic response impresses her, reinforcing her respect for his ability to navigate humiliation with grace.
The chapter closes with the group being escorted into the city, the protagonist marveling at its grandeur while grappling with feelings of inadequacy. Her observations of the vibrant, technologically advanced environment underscore the Republic’s decline and the urgency of their mission. The tension between admiration for Antarctica’s achievements and resentment of their arrogance lingers, setting the stage for the challenges ahead in securing their alliance.
FAQs
1. What is the current state of the Republic’s relationship with Antarctica, and why is their aid so critical?
Answer:
The Republic is heavily dependent on Antarctica for international aid, as its own economy is too weak to sustain itself. Antarctica has promised to double their aid if the Republic can broker a treaty with the Colonies, but they threaten to halve it if no treaty is achieved by year’s end. This aid is vital for the Republic’s survival, especially amid ongoing conflicts with the Colonies and Africa. Anden reveals that Antarctica has been dissatisfied with the Republic in recent years, likely due to unpaid debts or political tensions. The Republic’s visit aims not only to secure military support but also to prevent further reduction in aid, highlighting their precarious position.2. How does the description of Ross City contrast with the Republic, and what might this imply about their societies?
Answer:
Ross City is depicted as a technologically advanced, wealthy metropolis with vibrant, color-shifting skyscrapers, climate-controlled domes, and magnetic docking systems—features absent in the Republic. The pristine, futuristic architecture and infrastructure suggest Antarctica invests heavily in innovation and maintenance, unlike the Republic’s struggling economy. The holographic population counters and airborne bridges also imply a highly organized, data-driven society. This stark contrast underscores the Republic’s underdevelopment and resource scarcity, reinforcing the power imbalance between the two nations and the Republic’s vulnerability.3. Analyze Anden’s diplomatic approach during the interaction with Lady Medina. What does this reveal about his leadership style?
Answer:
Anden demonstrates tactful diplomacy when Lady Medina subtly insults the Republic’s jets by offering “superior” Antarctican ones. Instead of reacting defensively, he responds with gratitude and humility, diffusing tension while maintaining dignity. This reveals his ability to prioritize strategic relationships over pride, a crucial trait for leading a nation in crisis. His composure under pressure and willingness to shoulder burdens—evident in his weary yet charming demeanor—suggest a leader who balances emotional intelligence with political pragmatism, even when facing condescension from more powerful allies.4. Why might the Antarcticans subject the Republic’s delegation to rigorous plague inspections, and how does this reflect global perceptions of the Republic?
Answer:
The biohazard checks imply Antarctica views the Republic as a potential source of contamination, likely due to the Colonies’ plague outbreak. The thorough inspections—even for the Elector—signal distrust and a perception of the Republic as a high-risk, possibly negligent state. This scrutiny aligns with earlier hints of Antarctica’s dissatisfaction with the Republic, suggesting their relationship is strained not just economically but also in terms of public health credibility. The Republic’s tarnished reputation may complicate negotiations, as Antarctica seems to see them as both dependent and unreliable.5. How does the protagonist’s observation of the floating population numbers deepen the world-building, and what might these numbers signify?
Answer:
The holographic numbers (ranging 0–30,000) atop skyscrapers introduce a layer of mystery about Antarctican society. While initially assumed to represent building populations, the low ceiling (given the structures’ size) hints at alternative functions—perhaps real-time resource allocation, occupancy limits, or social metrics like approval ratings. This detail reinforces Antarctica’s emphasis on surveillance, efficiency, or transparency, contrasting with the Republic’s opacity. It also sparks curiosity about whether these numbers reflect control mechanisms (e.g., quotas) or civic pride, enriching the chapter’s speculative elements and highlighting cultural differences.
Quotes
1. “Antarctica has promised to double their aid if we can draft a treaty that can get the Colonies talking with us again. And they’ve threatened to halve their aid if we don’t have a treaty by the end of this year.”
This quote reveals the precarious diplomatic and economic situation of the Republic, highlighting how dependent they are on Antarctica’s aid and the high-stakes negotiations they must navigate.
2. “They have a long rivalry with Africa. If anyone with power will help us win a war against the Colonies and Africa, it’ll be them.”
This statement underscores the geopolitical tensions in the story’s world, explaining why Antarctica is the Republic’s best hope for support against their enemies.
3. “One look is all I need to confirm just how much of a technological and wealth gap there is between the Republic and Antarctica.”
This observation emphasizes the stark contrast between the two nations, showcasing Antarctica’s advanced infrastructure and the Republic’s relative weakness, which shapes their diplomatic dynamics.
4. “Every day, I see new evidence of the burdens he shoulders.”
This reflective remark about Anden captures the protagonist’s growing admiration for his leadership and the weight of responsibility he carries as the Elector of the struggling Republic.
5. “The news of the Colonies’ plague must have spread here.”
This brief but significant note hints at the broader conflict and the spreading crisis, adding tension to the scene and reminding readers of the looming threat even in this moment of diplomacy.