Contents
Chapter Twenty-Two
Overview
Bastian, Lore, and Alie arrive at a dark, near-empty Courdigne where Bellegarde greets them with thinly veiled hostility. In private, Bastian admits Apollius increasingly controls him by day and that he speaks freely only at night. Lore cannot reveal Nyxara’s presence but pledges to help. Their bond deepens as they choose secrecy and resolve over immediate answers.
Summary
Arriving at the shadowed manor in Courdigne, Bastian, Lore, and Alie are met by Bellegarde’s grudging deference and contempt. He pointedly notes Bastian’s betrothal and withholds light and hospitality, signaling allegiance to Apollius with unsettling iconography and a demand to speak under the sun. Bastian rebukes him, asserting royal authority and insisting Lore stay in his room.
Once alone, Lore presses Bastian to speak. Warned by Nyxara to keep her presence hidden, Lore carefully frames questions. Bastian admits the intrusion began after his coronation ritual and worsens daily: at night he is mostly free; by day Apollius increasingly takes control, observing and steering him. He has avoided confiding in Lore for fear Apollius will learn she knows.
They weigh the risk of speaking against Bastian’s need for relief, choosing cautious honesty. Lore promises to seek answers in texts and from Anton. Bastian, exhausted, clings to control for Lore’s sake, and the two lie together chastely, choosing comfort over desire.
Before sleep, Bastian reveals a disturbing overlap—parts of himself and Apollius want the same things, including Lore. As Bastian finally rests, Lore keeps vigil, determined to find a way to sever the god’s hold.
Who Appears
- LoreDetermined to help Bastian; hides Nyxara’s presence; offers resolve and comfort; shares bed without sex.
- BastianAdmits Apollius controls him by day and loosens at night; asserts authority over Bellegarde; seeks solace with Lore.
- Bellegarde (Severin)Hostile lord of Courdigne; withholds light; insists on daytime talks; symbolizes Apollius’s influence.
- Alie (Alienor)Arrives with the group; unfazed by the dark manor; secures her own room; observes family tensions.
- NyxaraGoddess in Lore’s mind; warns against revealing her; fears Apollius; acknowledges Bastian’s struggle.