Chapter 73

Cameron, restless in the empty council halls and frustrated with fruitless research, debates Logan about the lack of progress and Xavier’s recent avoidance. Concerned that Samkiel hasn’t checked in for three days, Cameron insists they verify his status despite Logan’s skepticism.

They portal to Samkiel’s palace and find it dark and silent. Inside, the kitchen and living areas are a wreck—overturned furniture, shredded cushions, scattered food—evidence of passionate seclusion rather than a fight. Humor breaks their tension as they realize Samkiel and Dianna caused the chaos.

Samkiel appears suddenly, naked and battle-rough, demanding to know why they are there. Once he realizes there is no threat, he confirms time has slipped by for him; Cameron teases him about Dianna’s bite marks. When Cameron probes about Dianna’s powers, Samkiel tersely says they have not returned.

Dianna calls down “Sami,” revealing new intimacy between them. Samkiel quiets Cameron and, at Logan’s reassurance, lets them go. The visit confirms Samkiel’s safety, Dianna’s presence, and the couple’s strengthened bond.

Outside, Cameron balks at returning to the council hall and its tensions—Elianna’s scrutiny and Xavier’s silence. Sensing this, Logan proposes a brief trip to Onuna for seasonal chocolate bowls as a respite and a treat for Neverra and Imogen. Cameron agrees, and they depart together.