Cassius Red Rising: An Engrossing Dystopian Journey***
Cassius au Bellona is a fictional character from the bookseries Red Rising, created by American author Pierce Brown. The character, who hails from the Martian house Bellona, serves as the son of Tiberius and Julia au Bellona. His life is marked by deception, betrayal, and intense family loyalty, particularly towards his twin brother Julian, who was killed during an event known as the Passage.
The Rise of Cassius au Bellona
Cassius au Bellona first appears in Red Rising, a dystopian science fiction novel set on Mars. As a young boy, Cassius wounded an eagle with a slingshot with his twin brother Julian. Instead of seeking the eagle's aid, Cassius opted to drop a stone on it, showcasing his competitive spirit and impulsive nature. The two brothers were extremely close, with Julian being Cassius' favorite, even after the elder brother was killed in the Passage.
Cassius continued to excel in everything he did, which led to him become more arrogant and vain due to his wealthy background and good looks. He joined the prestigious Institute, where he learned advanced skills, including fighting and strategy. His natural talent and intelligence quickly made him a favorite among his peers, particularly his dear ally Darrow. Cassius' rivalry with Antonia au Severus, another wealthy Gold, also developed during his time at the Institute.
The Fall of Cassius au Bellona
The turning point in Cassius' life comes when his twins brother Julian is killed during the Passage. This traumatic event deeply affects Cassius, who becomes filled with hatred and vengeance. Years later, as the novel Red Rising unfolds, Cassius is drawn into a conflict between the powerful ruling class of the Sovereign and the oppressed Reds. He becomes a pivotal figure in the struggle, eventually rising to become one of the main antagonists.
Cassius' journey takes him through various trials and tribulations, including battles, treachery, and emotional turmoil. He eventually comes to the realization that he is not inherently evil, but rather a product of his environment and upbringing. Despite his flaws and imperfections, Cassius remains a lovable character with a strong sense of honor and pride in his heritage.
Final Words
Cassius au Bellona is a complex and captivating character whose story is sure to resonate with readers of Red Rising. Through his experiences, we are exposed to the harsh realities of life in a dystopian society and the powerful themes of family loyalty, betrayal, and revenge. If you haven't read this novel yet, I highly recommend giving it a try and immersing yourself in the richly imagined universe of Red Rising.
