The Kindred's Curse Saga, #3
Heat of the Everflame
by Penn Cole
Contents
Chapter 44
Overview
Diem returns to Luther’s rooms, grieves, and bargains with Lumnos, offering magic and blood. The goddess’s bust weeps blood as Luther crashes from godstone poisoning. Diem nearly grants him a merciful death, but a Meros compass sign points her to an Arboros tonic, which she administers. Luther’s fate remains uncertain as Diem and Lily keep vigil.
Summary
Diem enters Luther’s quarters, overwhelmed by his presence and memories of their turning point after the armory attack. She reflects on his steadfast faith in her and her love for him, then confronts the bust of Lumnos, raging at the goddess for Luther’s suffering.
In desperation, Diem offers her magic and even her blood, pledging absolute submission if Lumnos spares Luther. As her power floods the room, the bust appears to respond: dark blood-tears stream from its eyes, startling Diem just as Lily arrives with news that Luther is in crisis.
Diem finds Luther convulsing, poisoned veins spreading and his heartbeat failing. Accepting he may be dying, she prepares to give him Maura’s vial to end his pain, sharing a wordless, grief-stricken accord with Lily.
A metallic jingle draws Diem’s eye to the Meros compass in Luther’s hand. Opening it, she notices a new sign; blood on the dial glows, signaling her heart’s true desire. Her gaze lands on an unopened Arboros vial gifted at her Ascension—the claimed panacea for all but god-sent ailments.
Despite Remis’s skepticism, Diem follows the compass’s cue, administering the Arboros tonic to Luther by mouth and directly into his wound. With no immediate change, Diem and Lily climb into bed beside Luther, clasp hands across his chest, and listen to his fragile heartbeat, praying and hoping as they keep vigil.
Who Appears
- DiemProtagonist; grieves and bargains with Lumnos, offers blood, then uses a Meros sign to try an Arboros tonic on Luther.
- LutherGravely ill from godstone poisoning; convulses and nears death as Diem administers a last-hope Arboros tonic.
- LilyComforts Luther and supports Diem; agrees to spare him pain before Diem tries the Arboros vial.
- RemisLuther’s father; helps turn Luther on his side and doubts the existence of a godstone cure.
- AvanaPresent at Luther’s bedside, distraught as events spiral; witnesses Diem’s desperate attempts.
- LumnosGoddess addressed by Diem; her bust appears to weep blood, spurring Diem’s hope and resolve.