Chapter 49

Samkiel narrates from the restored remains of Rashaerim, which he has rebuilt into a comfortable home for Dianna after bringing her back through the portal a week earlier. He reflects on a successful meeting with The Hand and on Neverra’s revelations he has locked away, while guilt over past choices—and nearly losing Dianna and Logan—gnaws at him.

Roccurem appears in mortal form as Samkiel tends to the still-sleeping Dianna. Samkiel, who has healed her physical wounds repeatedly, demands to know what afflicts her. Roccurem explains that Dianna has “burned out” from extreme use of her abilities, including opening the portal from Yejedin, and that her condition is emotional rather than physical. Recovery could take days, years, or never.

Roccurem advises keeping Dianna hidden at Rashaerim until she recovers and the council’s judgment is decided, noting that only The Hand knows this place. Samkiel, unwilling to surrender her to the council, agrees to stay and declares he will not attend the council until she wakes.

Pressed about his dreams, Samkiel refuses to tell Dianna or the others of his recurring premonitions of his own death, the gates opening to vast armies, and biting frost. Roccurem warns Dianna will be furious if she learns, but Samkiel prioritizes preparing the others for the worst and orders Roccurem back to the council.

Alone again, Samkiel admits jealousy over Dianna’s past connections and recognizes how deeply she affects him. He vows to be clearer about his feelings and, leaning close, begs her to wake—accepting even her anger—so long as she remains with him.