Summary

In Chapter 28, Mare and the Colonel walk to Barracks 1 and into the control room. The Colonel asks the Nortan and Lakelander soldiers to leave, but two identical men in green uniforms remain. They introduce themselves as Rash and Tahir and tell her that they have traveled far to meet her and make an offer. They speak in unison and offer her the Free Republic of Montfort. Mare realizes that they are newbloods, and they explain that in Montfort, a distant nation ruled by Silver princes, they are called Ardents. They tell her that the Republic is a haven for Ardents, and they will offer asylum to them in exchange for Mare’s military leadership. Mare denies their offer, wary of their militaristic demands, and leaves the room. The Colonel follows Mare and offers his condolences for Shade. She tells him about the...