The Kindred's Curse Saga, #3
Heat of the Everflame
by Penn Cole
Contents
Chapter 9
Overview
Diem reunites with Taran and learns Luther surrendered to protect her. With Alixe nearby, they attempt a rescue by detonating Guardians’ bombs, since Diem’s magic is suppressed by flameroot. The blasts scatter the camp, forcing Cordellia to mobilize defenses, while Diem lights a second bomb and runs.
Summary
Diem is seized by an unknown man who reveals himself as Taran, her ally and friend. He explains that Luther willingly surrendered to the Guardians to reach her. From the tent, Diem sees Luther bound before Cordellia and also spots Alixe watching from the woods, signaling potential support.
Unable to use magic due to flameroot, Diem and Taran decide to create a distraction with the Guardians’ bombs. Diem risks approaching the bonfire to light a makeshift torch, while Luther deliberately roars and startles the crowd to cover her movement.
At the corral, Taran silently subdues a guard while Diem grabs two bombs. She lights the first in the treeline, which explodes and throws the camp into chaos. Cordellia orders evacuations and defensive positions, fearing a gryvern attack.
Amid the confusion, Diem crawls toward Luther but is recognized when a second bomb slips into view. With pursuit closing in, she lights the second bomb at the campfire. Cordellia recognizes Diem and warns her to stop, but Diem hurls the bomb toward the trees and flees as the fuse burns down.
Who Appears
- DiemQueen protagonist; reunites with Taran, plans a bomb distraction, lights and throws explosives while her magic is nullified by flameroot.
- TaranDiem’s ally; finds her, subdues a guard, supports the bomb plan, worries about Luther’s risk.
- Luther CorboisHigh General; surrenders to the Guardians to protect Diem, distracts the crowd with a roar while bound.
- Cordellia (Mother Dell)Guardian leader; interrogates Luther, commands evacuation and defenses, recognizes Diem and warns her not to throw the bomb.
- AlixeLuther’s second and Diem’s advisor; watches from the woods, poised to aid the escape.