Chapter 6

Diem awakens restrained in the Guardians’ camp, panicking as Cordellia forces flameroot down to suppress her magic and keep her conscious. Guardians assault her and refuse aid, but Diem directs them to white asterberry as a burn remedy. Under pressure, Cordellia admits the ballista’s second bolt missed and that Sorae and Prince Luther escaped, giving Diem fragile hope.

As Diem eats for the first time in days, she notes the hidden, mobile settlement and the mortals’ hostility. Cordellia links Diem’s resourcefulness to Auralie and orders the camp to prepare to move, expecting a rescue attempt. Diem, re-chained, defends her bonds with Sorae and Luther; Cordellia questions such loyalties and confirms Vance’s arm is badly maimed. Diem offers to heal the wounded, but Cordellia refuses, fearing reprisals if any die under Diem’s care.

Cordellia asks about Lumnos, and Diem recounts joining the Guardians, rejecting Vance’s ruthless methods, and thwarting violence at the Ascension Ball. They debate the movement’s ethics: Diem supports justice without slaughter, while Cordellia dismisses compassion without action. Cordellia hints there are other Descended allies in high places.

Fearing Vance will use her blood to breach Lumnos and murder sleepers, Diem begs to return to protect both mortals and royals. Cordellia, focused on trading Diem for Auralie and blaming Sorae’s killings, refuses immediate release and condemns Luther for past crimes. The chapter ends with Cordellia promising to consider Diem’s plea while moving the camp; Vance is recovering there, so Lumnos is safe—for now.