Heat of the Everflame

In the morning, Diem and Luther discuss Auralie. Luther explains how they first started working together. He respected Auralie’s healing capacities and knew she sympathized with mortals and half-mortals just like him. She also believed there was “a rare medicine” (103) on Coeurîle that she could harvest and bring back to Lumnos before Luther’s anticipated coronation; this was her mission all these months. Luther gained insight into Auralie’s intentions when he met Diem. Diem wishes Luther had told her about his relationship with Auralie sooner, but lets go of her anger when Luther reiterates his belief in Diem and her mission.

The friends decide to spend one more night at their camp before heading to Arboros City and then back home. Diem spends the day showing her friends wilderness survival skills she learned in Mortal City in childhood.

Diem and her friends discuss what’s happening back in Lumnos. Luther is still at odds with his biological father Remis, whom the friends fear is power-hungry. Diem is also worried about her advisor Eleanor and believes Taran’s brother Aemonn will overstep her authority in the Royal Guard.

The conversation turns to the recent battle with the Guardians. Diem realizes that she and Luther used the magic