Chapter 65

In a past timeline, Zevander lies manacled and battered on a stone bed while General Loyce accuses him of betrayal. Any hope Zevander once had in King Sagaerin’s interest has curdled into resentment. Theron stands by as Loyce demands a way to prove Zevander’s communion if he returns to Caligorya.

Theron proposes proof through a new glyph and admits Zevander has slipped into Caligorya before to see visions. Zevander spits contempt, accusing Theron of currying favor. Loyce focuses on logistics, asking how to ensure Zevander’s return; Theron cites his will and the use of inhaled vivicantem, revealing he has been supplied with it.

Loyce flaunts Theron’s privileges compared to Zevander’s suffering, provoking Zevander to reveal that Theron once tried to poison Loyce—poison Zevander consumed. Pressed, Theron concedes possessing poison but denies murderous intent, while Loyce warns that betrayal never goes unpunished and orders the process to continue.

An orgoth clamps Zevander’s head as Theron breaks an ampoule of elixir that must be swallowed. Despite Zevander’s resistance and vow of vengeance, Loyce forces him to swallow. The vivicantem burns down Zevander’s throat, dulls his pain, blurs the room, and he drifts into blackness as Loyce commands him to return.