Heat of the Everflame

Diem Bellator wakes up in Arboros after her coronation went awry on Coeurîle island. A Guardian woman named Cordellia leans over her. Diem realizes she is in the custody of the Guardians of the Everflame. She is horrified when she sees Vance, the Guardian who killed an innocent in Mortal City, and remembers the violence he’s capable of.

Vance then reveals that Diem’s mother Auralie is now imprisoned in Fortos for leading the Guardians all these years. Diem is shocked to learn what Auralie has been doing since abandoning her family. However, she remains determined to rescue Auralie from the Fortos King.

Diem tries convincing her captors to release her. They refuse, accusing her of betraying the mortals by working with the Descended—magical beings descended from the Kindred gods. The Queen of Arboros discovers the Guardians are holding Diem and is displeased.

Diem wakes up, still chained. Then Brecke—her childhood sweetheart Henri’s friend—appears. Diem is relieved but feels guilty when he mentions Henri. She tells him about her struggles with her parents and her decision not to be with Henri. She reiterates her desires to protect both the mortals and the Descended.

Brecke opens up to Diem about Auralie’s involvement with the Guardians.