Chapter 20

Diem and Luther decompress after the funeral. They discuss illusion magic and Luther’s focus on weaponized training, and Diem learns Taran and Alixe help him extract half-mortal children, a secret kept from Lily. Diem reveals she asked her father to advise at the House Receptions; Luther calls it dangerous but agrees to arrange it.

Pressed for honesty about the funeral’s damage, Luther admits it’s “bad enough.” He asks for trust; Diem gives it, and their mutual attraction surges as they embrace and nearly kiss, only for Eleanor and Taran to knock and interrupt.

Eleanor and Taran offer unqualified support. Luther insists Diem begin daily magic training, with Alixe assisting; Taran volunteers as well. Taran and Eleanor invite Diem to a dinner with younger cousins to help her integrate and build ambassadors within the Houses; Diem hesitates but considers it.

Playful power shifts follow: at Diem’s urging, Luther formally apologizes to Eleanor—on one knee—after momentarily gagging Taran with shadow. Before leaving, Diem kisses Luther’s cheek in thanks for bringing her father and teases about favor. Luther answers with a charged promise, and Diem, alone, admits she’s in deep trouble with her feelings, despite her betrothal.