Chapter 35

Diem immerses herself in Yrselle’s forbidden library, skimming suppressed mortal histories, governance experiments, and fragmented scriptures that reveal the Kindred erased names to erase power. She studies Everflame lore that frames it as enduring, life-giving, and redemptive, reinforcing why the Crowns banned it.

Drawn to a locked cage of Kindred texts, Diem finds an unlabeled, handwritten diary by Montios. The entries humanize the Kindred, describing their aid to mortals, discomfort with worship, and the siblings’ romantic “falls.” Montios confesses love and a willingness to pay any price to bind her mortal beloved’s life to hers—foreshadowing their lost immortality. Later pages mention Lumnos’s unborn child, fear of Descended, a plan requiring the youngest sibling’s agreement, and Montios’s fear of him; the ending is torn out.

Symond appears bloodstained (not his), summons Diem to dress for dinner, and slyly withholds details. On the way back, he reveals two Centenaries were with one of her guests and orchestrates Diem witnessing Luther nude in bed after their departure. Reeling, Diem questions her assumptions about Luther’s distance and guilt.

Prepared by Centenaries in a provocative Umbros gown, Diem reunites with her companions, noticing Luther’s immaculate formality and gloves. They remark her Crown looks altered, with mirrored peaks and shifting crystal shards. Despite concern, Diem proceeds to an eerily empty hall, greenlighting Taran’s plan to glean information through revelry, trusting Yrselle won’t strike openly.

Alone with Luther, Diem confronts him about the Centenaries. Luther offers curt non-answers and says, “You’ll understand soon,” deepening her hurt and mistrust. Determined not to be broken, Diem turns to Taran for strong drink, steeling herself as her reflected Crown confirms its change and she embraces a defiant confidence.

At last, Yrselle makes a grand, sensual entrance with Symond and a dazzling retinue of Centenaries, setting the stage for a politically charged dinner where Diem’s alliances, composure, and evolving power will be tested.