Na Viro reflection

 Lindsey Robert

9/18/23

               Na Viro Reflection 

      Na Viro portrays many theme and conflicts, Cole introduces an indigenous character as a criminal in colonial violence displayed in Tia and Leilani’s mother, Dani. It was interesting to question why Dani did all of this, maybe an inner struggle of hers trying to be a good mom but being sucked into the Academy? Dani was crude to Tia on the mission to find Leilani. “Dani turned and grabbed Tia’s arms. Tia cried out in pain and held herself rigid as Dani stared into her eyes. ‘I am the ship’s captain. You will show me respect, cadet. Don’t expect any special treatment.’ Spittle flecks shot from her mouth as she spoke.”(Cole 151). Dani had been actively participating in colonialism. “Dani rushed back to the door. ‘The probe holds vital information for the Academy, for the future of Earth. Your future.” (Cole 190).

The question furthers to why did Dani participate in this Academy scheme. The application of this display of colonialism in Dani relates to real day versions of that such as the United States trying to take oil from places across seas for the lifestyle they created and can’t keep up, and end up hurting other people and their homes in the long run. “You have no idea. Let me go. We can talk,’ said Dani. ‘We’re talking now. Why did you do those horrible things? Why didn’t you tell me …?’ Tia’s voice broke. ‘You are impossible. I can’t discuss mission details with you.’ ‘What are you up to? What is the Academy doing with the Thraean people?’ asked Tia.”(Cole 192). This display of Dani wanting to talk to Tia then contradicting herself by saying she can’t talk mission details, displays her loyalty for the Academy, whether it be a power trip she enjoys, or is being almost brainwashed by the Academy as she ruins her relationship with everyone around her including her two daughters who she abandoned as kids. 

         Through this all Tia seems to still think about her mother lovingly. “The Dani that was in the brig was nothing like this person. She’d known a version of Dani her whole life. But it was all a lie. What had happened to Dani to change her? Tia held onto her mother’s happy pregnant state, stayed there for a while.”(Cole 223) It is never explained by Dani herself, why she did it and why she ruined every relationship in her life. Dani is killed by Tia and it’s not talked about after. There’s no further display of emotion from Tia or Leilani after this. It would be interesting to see what happens in the next book, if it will be a display of grieving from Tia from the loss of her biological mother, and also her love interest who died. 


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