Chapter 7

Diem endures a blindfolded march to a new coastal rebel camp, observing its efficiency and the presence of entire families. Kept under constant guard, she feigns sleep to overhear intel: the army blockades Coeurîle with warships, may wait out mortals’ lifespans, and must retake the island by Forging Day in three months or risk magic “going wrong.” Other cells sabotage ports and waterways, and rumors spread of a powerful Descended aiding rebels in the north.

Brecke and a nervous young Guardian, Herkin, relieve Diem’s guards. Brecke adopts a harsh facade, leads Diem into the forest, then knocks Herkin unconscious and secretly unlocks Diem’s shackles. While sneaking around the perimeter, Diem manages to draw her Forged Crown’s light into her chest, concealing it despite her godhood remaining suppressed by flameroot.

On the beach, Brecke signals a waiting figure—Cordellia. Cordellia reveals Fortos rejected any trade for Diem and likely intends to kill Auralie in due course. She refuses to surrender Coeurîle but will stall negotiations to keep Auralie alive. Cordellia urges Diem to return to Lumnos quickly to restrain Vance, who plans to go back and may act rashly.

Cordellia insists on one condition: Diem must drink more flameroot to ensure her magic stays suppressed until the rebels relocate. She provides only mortal weapons and warns godstone arms are too scarce to spare. Diem agrees, warning she will destroy any remaining gryvern bolt if Sorae is targeted again.

Before departure, Cordellia admits Auralie sought peace and strategy, contrasting Vance’s recklessness, and suggests Montios as a safe haven for Auralie and Luther once freed. Brecke declines Diem’s offer to flee to Lumnos, planning instead to head north. After final warnings about power vacuums and army presence in Lumnos, Diem rows into the Sacred Sea toward home, powerless but determined to reclaim her throne and save her mother.