Chapter 42

Zevander struggles to process his loss of control while channeling power with Maevyth. The experience leaves him conflicted—aroused and enraged—because a mortal with no formal training seemed to command his flame, undermining centuries of discipline.

Ravezio arrives with Torryn to report they have captured the flammellian who harmed Rykaia. In a bare dungeon cell, the gaunt prisoner smirks and provokes Zevander. Ravezio produces an ampoule of flammapul, confirming a link to the attack. The prisoner boasts and reveals himself as a painkeeper, deriving pleasure from others’ suffering, further inflaming Zevander’s fury.

Zevander manifests a shadow-scorpion to threaten him, but the prisoner declares he is protected by an enchantment that prevents any Letalisz from killing or even effectively torturing or starving him. He taunts them with a riddle about what men yearn for that begins at the last breath. When Zevander orders the scorpion to strike, it dissipates, proving the claim.

Choosing another path, Zevander drags the prisoner from the cell and opens the cellar leading to Branimir and his pets. He states the enchanter overlooked that he has an older brother, then drops the prisoner into the pit. The man’s screams end in wet tearing sounds, implying Branimir finishes him.

Afterward, Torryn remarks they should have solved the riddle first. Zevander answers it anyway—Legacy—acknowledging the clue offers only direction and no supplier’s name. The outcome vents Zevander’s rage but leaves the greater threat—the enchanter and the flammapul source—unresolved.