Chapter 93

In the Floating City of Jade beneath twin suns, Dianna watches over an unconscious Samkiel while Roccurem recovers. The Asclepius—renowned, secretive healers—treat Samkiel’s still-fatal midsection wound with smoke, pastes, and tonics. Dianna, shaken by the recent resurrection and the disappearance of their bond-mark from her finger, refuses to leave Samkiel’s side and counts his breaths.

When Roccurem says the wound persists because Samkiel was not meant to survive, Dianna vows to destroy those responsible. She orders absolute secrecy, threatening to burn the floating city if anyone reveals Samkiel lives. Roccurem assures the Asclepius’ silence and calms them when Dianna’s protectiveness startles the healers.

Turning to strategy, Dianna declares they must reclaim the Hand and stop Nismera. Roccurem warns that Nismera, a powerful, ancient goddess, now seen as ruler of the twelve realms after Samkiel’s presumed death, will likely go to the newly opened Otherworld first. He urges Dianna to temper rage with caution; Dianna rejects fear of gods but agrees to be careful.

Before Roccurem departs, Dianna asks him not to tell Samkiel recent truths, insisting she must be the one to do it. Roccurem agrees, and Dianna’s familiar nickname “Reggie” softens the moment between them as he leaves the chamber.

Alone, Dianna curls beside Samkiel, reassured by his heartbeat aligned with hers as he instinctively draws her close even in sleep. Despite the fragile peace, her mind circles the warning that resurrection exacts a price. As she drifts off, she fears the cost may be more than the vanished bond-mark.