Chapter 28

Eleanor orchestrates Diem’s dances to keep her visible and safe, favoring senior House leaders over suitors. Luther watches from the edges with Taran and Alixe, rebuffing most invitations, while Aemonn maintains a public courtship. As the final song is announced, Aemonn calls Diem to finish the night at his side.

Luther intercepts and claims the last dance. In their close embrace, Diem asks about the rebel plot; Luther explains an Umbros compelled the attackers to abandon their mission, and he disposed of their weapons in the Sacred Sea. He urges focus on the Challenging, predicting the Umbros Queen will act after coronation.

Diem bristles at Marthe Hanoverre’s slander but accepts Luther’s regret for not intervening. Their attraction intensifies. When Diem, overwhelmed, blurts fears about the mortals, Guardians, and dismantling the Crowns, she panics at revealing too much.

Luther responds by revealing his conviction that Lumnos favors protecting mortals and that Diem embodies needed change. He praises her courage, mercy, and refusal to choose slaughter, urging her to lead a harder path toward peace. Diem recognizes a possible role not just to join a side, but to lead one.

Luther vows absolute fealty, framing himself as her sword, and confesses he wants all of her without demanding marriage or a crown. The music ends, shattering their private moment. Eleanor and Aemonn reclaim Diem for farewells, while Luther departs after a final, intimate salute, leaving Diem shaken and unresolved.