Chapter 74

At the Kindred’s Temple, Diem convenes the Crowns to seek pardons for herself and her mother, arguing peace with mortals and prioritizing the threat of a powerful Descended in Montios. Doriel and Meros tentatively support her after debate, while Arboros and Faunos refuse out of fear and precedent, and Ignios mocks and opposes.

Diem reveals her rare magic immunity and multiple magics tied to additional Crowns, heightening tensions. Doriel’s quiet plan surfaces: after restoring the Forging, Diem will be arrested and confined in an Omnos cell, effectively nullifying her bonded bargain and power, while a Fortos regent—answering to Sophos—assumes command of the army. Gryverns attack the Guardians outside, exposing Doriel’s prearranged coup.

Yrselle (Umbros) arrives, condemns Diem’s choices, yet decides to vote yes, offering cryptic instructions and a key. Before she finishes, Ignios stabs Yrselle repeatedly with a godstone blade. Meros brandishes hidden weapons; Faunos and Arboros reveal their own, while Doriel protests the desecration but persists with the plan.

As Yrselle dies, the Umbros obelisk flame gutters out. Diem collapses in agony as a dark beam erupts from the heartstone and from her; the mantle transfers, making Diem the new Queen of Umbros. The Temple descends into chaos with the Guardians under gryvern fire and Doriel’s scheme tightening, leaving Diem pardoned by none and newly bound to Umbros.