The Dragon Republic (The Poppy War, #2)

Nezha wakes Rin and Kitay early so they are awake as they sail into his home city, Arlong, an “amphibious city” of interconnected islands. Nezha points out the beaches of his youth and guides Rin, Kitay, and the Cike through water channels to the military district. He confesses that Vaisra has been preparing for this war since before he was born. They are outfitted with new uniforms, which are stronger, more flexible, and more expensive than the Empire’s militia-issued uniforms. The armory, barracks, and munitions are also all more sophisticated.

Later, when Rin is alone, Nezha takes her to a shipyard where defensive warships are being built. He says a fire broke out, setting construction back months. Many thought it was a sign that the rebellion would fail, but Vaisra thought it was a sign to recruit Rin. Nezha shows Rin “militarized lily pads” that are large enough to support soldiers as they run across the water (185).

Their tour is interrupted by Nezha’s oldest sibling, Jinzha. He mocks Nezha for playing “tour guide,” needles Rin about her ability to call fire, and laughs at her when she can’t explain how her power works. He mocks the Speerly race and Altan, calling him a “dirt-skinned idiot who blew himself up for nothing” (187).