Champion
Chapter 23: Day 12
by Lu, MarieThe chapter begins with June undergoing intensive medical tests after her theory offers a potential breakthrough in finding a cure for the plague. The protagonist, deeply concerned for her safety, is forced to leave the hospital with Pascao and other Republic soldiers. As they travel by train to Batalla’s airship bases, the protagonist reflects on their past exploits, including sabotaging Republic ships, which first earned them a notorious reputation. The group’s mission is to plant explosives at the bases to cripple incoming Colonies airships, leveraging the protagonist’s intimate knowledge of the layouts.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the third day of the Colonies’ ceasefire, with Anden’s surrender announcement sparking mixed reactions among civilians. Some are shocked, while others vent their anger at the perceived betrayal. The protagonist notes the importance of channeling this rage against the Colonies. Pascao briefs the team on the plan to plant six bombs per dock, aiming to disable Colonies airships without causing excessive damage to the bases. The protagonist, however, is preoccupied with the high stakes, fearing the consequences of failure.
Arriving at Naval Base One, the group observes Colonies forces gathering on the horizon, their presence signaled by distant specks in the sky and a low hum. The protagonist’s anxiety grows as they recall past failures, but they push these thoughts aside, focusing on the task. Republic soldiers guide them to strategic points within the base, emphasizing the need for precision. The protagonist and Pascao are assigned to plant bombs in hard-to-reach crevices, with the protagonist volunteering for the most challenging spot, despite Pascao’s concerns about their physical condition.
The chapter concludes with the protagonist and Pascao preparing to execute their part of the plan. The tension is palpable as the protagonist assesses their strength and the precariousness of the mission. The Republic captain’s skepticism about their abilities is met with Pascao’s confident humor, but the protagonist remains focused, determined to prove their worth. The chapter highlights the protagonist’s resilience and the collective desperation to thwart the Colonies’ advance, even as doubts linger about the feasibility of their plan and June’s potential role in saving them all.
FAQs
1. What is June’s theory, and why is it significant to the plot?
Answer:
June’s theory involves her blood or bone marrow potentially holding the “missing piece” needed to contain the plague. This is significant because it offers hope for developing a cure that could save countless lives, including Tess’s. The chapter shows June undergoing medical tests similar to Eden’s, indicating her biological makeup might be key to solving the pandemic. If proven true, this discovery could shift the entire narrative, providing a way to combat the plague and strengthen the Republic’s position against the Colonies.2. Analyze the significance of Daniel’s flashback about infiltrating Republic airships at age fourteen. How does this connect to the current mission?
Answer:
Daniel’s flashback highlights his expertise in stealth and sabotage, skills directly applicable to the Patriots’ current mission to cripple Colonies airships. His past success in destroying Republic ships by exploiting ventilation systems and engine rooms demonstrates his capability for the present task—planting explosives in strategic locations. This connection emphasizes how his rebellious history has shaped him into a valuable asset for resistance efforts. The recollection also underscores his growth from a lone thief to a key player in a larger rebellion.3. How does the chapter build tension regarding the Colonies’ impending attack? Provide specific details.
Answer:
Tension mounts through several cues: the “third and final day” of the ceasefire deadline, the visible Colonies troops as “dark specks” in the sky, and the ominous hum of approaching ships. Anden’s surrender announcement looping on JumboTrons, paired with “Seek Cover” warnings, creates a sense of urgency. The Republic soldiers’ rushed preparations and the Patriots’ race to plant bombs before the attack further heighten stakes. These details collectively create a countdown-like atmosphere, emphasizing the imminent threat.4. Evaluate the dynamic between the Republic soldiers and the Patriots during their collaboration. What does this reveal about societal divisions?
Answer:
The interaction is strained, as seen when the captain gives a “forced smile” and soldiers seem uncomfortable working with former enemies like Daniel. Pascao’s playful teasing highlights the Patriots’ informal style clashing with military formality. This tension reflects deeper societal rifts—the Republic’s ingrained distrust of criminals and dissidents, even when united against a common foe. The captain’s question about whether they’re “fast enough” implies lingering prejudice, suggesting systemic divisions persist despite the alliance.5. What internal conflict does Daniel face during the mission preparations, and how does he resolve it?
Answer:
Daniel grapples with fear of failure—worrying about the plan collapsing, the cure not working, and the Colonies capturing key figures like Anden or June. His mind spirals into “what if” scenarios, but he consciously shakes off these thoughts, concluding, “It’ll either happen or it won’t.” This resolution reflects his hardened pragmatism; he focuses on actionable tasks (like planting bombs) rather than unproductive anxiety. The chapter shows his growth in managing emotions under pressure, though his glance back at June hints at unresolved concern.
Quotes
1. “If June’s blood holds the missing piece, then we have a chance. We can contain the plague. We can save everyone. We can save Tess.”
This quote captures the pivotal hope and high stakes of the chapter, as June’s potential breakthrough could mean salvation for countless lives—including Tess, a deeply personal motivation for the protagonist. It represents the fragile optimism amidst desperation.
2. “It was this particular stunt that first landed me on top of the Republic’s most wanted list. Not too bad a job, if I do say so myself.”
This retrospective moment showcases the protagonist’s signature rebellious pride while foreshadowing the dangerous mission ahead. The casual boast contrasts with the gravity of their current situation, revealing his characteristic defiance.
3. “Good. Stay angry, use that anger against the Colonies. I need to play out my part soon.”
A crucial strategic thought that reveals the protagonist’s understanding of public sentiment as a weapon. This quote bridges the personal and political, showing how individual actions must align with collective resistance against the invading Colonies.
4. “If this plan fails… what will happen when the Colonies finally get their hands on Anden, or June, or myself? I shake my head, forcing the images out of my mind. There’s no time to worry about that.”
This internal monologue lays bare the existential stakes while demonstrating the protagonist’s forced resolve. It encapsulates the chapter’s tension between fear and determination, with the literal shaking of his head mirroring the narrative’s forward momentum.
5. “Time to plant some bombs.”
This terse, impactful statement serves as both a mission transition and symbolic culmination of the chapter’s buildup. The matter-of-fact delivery contrasts with the life-or-death consequences, embodying the protagonist’s hardened professionalism amidst chaos.