Chapter 4

Diem enters an opulent sitting room crowded with scores of Corbois royals. Luther formally announces the King’s death and presents Diem as Queen, compelling the family to kneel. Diem allows them to rise, intending to win trust for now. Remis, Ulther’s brother and current Regent, leads introductions, including his wife Avana, children Lilian and Luther, and his brother Garath, Warden of the Shadows, with Freah and their sons Aemonn and Taran. Aemonn flirts; Taran’s plain practicality stands out. Diem also notes the friendly Eleanor and the formidable warrior Alixe.

Seated for questions, Remis probes Diem’s surname and origins. Diem reveals she grew up near the palace among mortals. Alixe recognizes Andrei Bellator, and Luther interjects that Andrei is Diem’s adoptive father. Pressed about her parentage, Diem states her birth father is unknown and her mother is dead, admitting both parents were mortal, stunning the room.

Luther reframes the shock as opportunity: an Unhoused Queen needs allies, proposing Diem claim House Corbois for resources and protection from the Challenging. Remis supports the plan, hinting Corbois members would not Challenge one of their own. Garath protests and insults her blood, but Taran and Eleanor undercut him, joking that a dead cousin could be assigned as her sire.

Weighing the threat of an immediate Challenge against distrust of Corbois rule, Diem asks for time. Remis orders absolute secrecy to preserve the family’s status, since without a blood tie to the Crown they lose titles and home. Diem recognizes Luther’s self-interest, suppresses the urge to reject the alliance, and internally recommits to ultimately dismantling all Houses.