Dess shook her head. Before he walked off, Rex said for you to wait. He said it's totally important you don't touch Angie until he comes back. and he said that if you were a pain about it, I get to hit you with that. She pointed to where the darkling had flung Flabbergasted Supernumerary Mathematician, its tip blackened by ichor and fire. So, go ahead.
This excerpt from 'Blue Noon' offers a vivid glimpse into a world teeming with tension, authority, and perhaps a hint of absurdity. The interaction showcases characters in a moment of control and defiance, with Rex issuing clear directives that carry a sense of urgency and importance. The language used reveals a societal hierarchy and a hint of camaraderie or conflict among the characters, especially with the playful yet somewhat threatening remark about hitting someone if they misbehave. The mention of a 'darkling' flinging a 'Supernumerary Mathematician' charged with ichor and fire paints a surreal, fantastical setting that hints at a universe where the boundaries of reality are blurred. This scene encapsulates themes of obedience, authority, and the chaos of a bizarre world. The tone is darkly humorous, emphasizing the peculiar dynamics between the characters while immersing the reader into a fantastical realm that constantly balances threat and humor. It provokes curiosity about the characters' backgrounds and the universe they inhabit, inviting deeper exploration of the narrative's complex relationship between power, chaos, and camaraderie. Overall, the quote exemplifies Westerfeld’s knack for creating immersive worlds that are simultaneously bizarre and relatable, engaging readers in a story where every interaction is layered with meaning and potential danger.