Chapter 33

Yrselle retroactively sanctions Diem’s visit, restoring weapons, bags, and the Corbois’ magic while warning that any attack brings execution. She promises her Centenaries will not probe thoughts again, but offers no such promise for herself. Diem hosts a private dinner in her windowless suite with Alixe, Taran, and, despite tensions, Zalaric, whom Yrselle has attached to their party.

Over food, Zalaric explains Umbros politics and why he revealed their presence, arguing the Queen would have taken it from his mind regardless. Diem reveals the Cardinal survived, crediting a staged death, while hiding the fuller truth. Discussion turns to Yrselle’s motives; Zalaric, Alixe, and Taran argue that Diem’s magic is formidable and likely unsettles the Queen. Diem resists, but they cite the Challenging, the shattered barrier, and Zalaric sensing her aura at city scale.

Speculating that Yrselle wants an alliance against the other Crowns, Diem decides to cultivate Symond for information. She directs Alixe, Taran, and Zalaric to befriend the Centenaries to gather intelligence. After dinner, Zalaric assists a late training session, displaying magic Alixe cannot replicate, while Taran drinks himself to sleep.

As the night winds down, Diem comforts Zalaric about his isolation, forgives his earlier betrayal, and acknowledges his divided loyalties. Zalaric, in turn, hints that Diem may have touched his mind in the tunnels, then politely drops the subject, implying awareness without confrontation.

Resolving to face Luther, Diem brings him food and water. She senses his aura inside, oddly off-key, but he does not answer. Finding the door locked, Diem is left outside, pleading softly that he not give up on her.