Chapter 25

Samkiel, a week into the search, confronts Vincent over sensational claims about missing livestock and a winged beast. Frustrated and fearful for Dianna, Samkiel leaves with Imogen, admitting he feels Dianna’s anguish and is slipping under the strain.

At the Silver City Guild, Samkiel joins Xavier in the conference room. Roccurem arrives unannounced, and Samkiel threatens him for answers. Roccurem says Dianna will siege the city and is “starved for affection.” He projects memories of Samkiel and Dianna at the festival and Drake’s garden, asserting Dianna loved Samkiel and now feels guilty, believing that love contributed to Gabby’s death.

Pressed for specifics, Roccurem explains that Kaden spoke to Dianna, revealing Samkiel’s father once planned a betrothal between Samkiel and Imogen—a wedge Dianna doesn’t know was voided. The revelation worsened her fractured psyche. The room trembles as Samkiel’s control falters at the news.

Roccurem instructs Samkiel to let Dianna into Silver City because she seeks an item in Samkiel’s possession. If Samkiel can trap her and find a crack in her emotional armor, a better outcome is possible. Before vanishing, Roccurem leaves a final directive: “Kaden took her family from her. Give her one back.”