The Kindred's Curse Saga, #2
Glow of the Everflame
by Penn Cole
Contents
Chapter 39
Overview
Diem visits Mortal City before the Challenge, comforting Maura and revealing the realm’s stark inequalities to Alixe and Taran, who commit to her cause. Seeking Henri, she instead meets his father and learns Henri has left, unable to face her possible death. Diem departs with mortal support but without Henri.
Summary
Diem meets Maura outside the healer’s center, trading reassurance before the impending Challenge and promising continued supplies through Luther. With Alixe and Taran veiling their presence, Diem insists they accompany her into Mortal City to understand what she is fighting for.
She leads them through overcrowded housing, dangerous alleys, brothels, and drug dens, recounting patients’ stories and the impact of progeny laws and Guard violence. She also shows community bright spots—school, art studio, night market, and the orphanage—framing her life in Mortal City and the rift between mortals and Descended. Moved, Alixe and Taran pledge to stand with her.
Diem then visits Henri’s home for a private goodbye. His father, Mr. Albanon, reveals Henri has left for Arboros on a delivery, having sent a letter and avoiding the grief of a potential farewell. Diem masks her disappointment as Mr. Albanon condemns the Challenging and explains Henri’s aversion to death and goodbyes since his mother’s loss.
Before she leaves, Mr. Albanon shares that mortals have noticed Diem’s advocacy—refusing expulsions and aiding healers and the orphanage—and that they are praying for her. Diem warns that failure will worsen mortal conditions; Mr. Albanon bows and urges her to fight, sending her back to the palace with community faith but without Henri’s support.
Who Appears
- DiemQueen‑to‑be; tours Mortal City, frames her cause, seeks Henri, and leaves resolved despite his absence.
- AlixeAdvisor and mage; veils the group, witnesses mortal hardships, and pledges to support Diem’s mission.
- TaranDescended ally; accompanies Diem through the city, learns its realities, and commits to protecting mortals.
- MauraHealer; emotional farewell with Diem, receives promises of support and supplies before the Challenge.
- Mr. AlbanonHenri’s father; explains Henri’s departure, condemns the Challenging, and conveys community faith in Diem.
- HenriAbsent betrothed; leaves for Arboros, avoiding a goodbye as Diem faces the Challenge.