Book 2 : A Light in the Flame - Recap and Summary

 

Book 2: A Light in the Flame

Summary

A Light in the Flame by Jennifer L. Armentrout is the second book in the Flesh and Fire series, continuing the story of Seraphena "Sera" Mierel and her complicated relationship with Nyktos, the Primal of Death.Following the events of A Shadow in the Ember, Sera is grappling with her growing feelings for Nyktos, while also uncovering more about her true identity and the hidden motives behind the gods' ancient plans. She has failed in her mission to kill Nyktos, and instead, their bond deepens, complicating her sense of duty and purpose. Nyktos is now more determined to protect Sera from those who would use her powers for their own gain. The two are drawn into a greater battle involving the gods, the primals, and the very nature of life and death. As secrets unravel, Sera learns that her destiny is even more complicated than she realized — her powers may hold the key to saving or destroying the realm.Sera must navigate dangerous alliances, face betrayal, and confront the powerful forces that threaten not only her world but also the people she loves. Her relationship with Nyktos continues to evolve, though their love is threatened by dark prophecies and the weight of ancient, binding promises.Sera’s journey is one of self-discovery and resilience as she faces increasing threats to her life and to Nyktos.he story is a blend of romance, action, and fantasy, with intense emotional moments and revelations that set the stage for even greater challenges ahead.

***Chapter Recaps***

Chapter 1 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Nyktos Bows to Sera

Stunning Revelation: The chapter opens with Nyktos, the Primal of Death, bowing to Sera. He acknowledges her as the true Primal of Life, despite her protests that she is still a mortal. Nyktos insists that she carries the only true embers of life, making her the most powerful being across all realms. Sir Holland, now revealed as one of the Arae (Fates), explains that Nyktos’s gesture is one of respect for her position.

Sera’s Struggle with Her Identity
Sera’s Denial: Sera struggles to accept this new identity, feeling like a mere mortal unworthy of such power and responsibility. She’s still grappling with the truth that she will undergo the Culling, a process that will likely kill her unless she has the blood and love of a Primal—specifically, Nyktos—to survive. Despite her efforts to calm herself, the weight of her fate overwhelms her.

Nyktos Offers Comfort
Intimate Moment: Nyktos comforts Sera when she experiences a panic attack, touching her cheek and helping her breathe. The interaction is laced with the complex emotions they both feel, as Sera recalls their past intimate moments. Despite the intensity of their connection, Sera is aware that Nyktos cannot love her, which leaves her feeling lost.

The Prophecy and Sotoria
Discussion of Prophecies: The group discusses the prophecy that foretells Sera’s importance, though they acknowledge that prophecies are often confusing and open to interpretation. Penellaphe, a goddess with divination abilities, adds that the prophecy was dreamt by the Ancients, and some of it has already come to pass—especially Sera’s ability to bring Bele back to life.

Sera’s Past Lives: The chapter reiterates that Sera has lived many lives, including as Sotoria, the mortal woman who was once loved by Kolis, the Primal of Death. Sera struggles to reconcile that she was once this woman, who was a victim of Kolis’s obsession. The revelation of her past lives weighs heavily on her, especially the knowledge that her soul has been reborn countless times as part of a larger plan.

Kolis’s Threat Looms
The Danger of Kolis: Nyktos and the others discuss the potential threat that Kolis poses now that he may sense the embers of life within Sera. Kolis is obsessed with life and might try to claim Sera once he realizes her true identity. They anticipate that Kolis will make a move, but Nyktos vows to protect Sera, though she worries about the cost of her presence to those around her.

Nyktos Cannot Love
Nyktos’s Heartless Truth: The chapter ends with a shocking revelation: Nyktos physically removed his capacity to love. He had his kardia, the part of the soul that allows beings to love, removed by Maia, the Primal of Love, to protect himself from emotional vulnerability. Without his kardia, Nyktos is incapable of loving Sera, meaning that even if he wanted to, he cannot help her survive the Culling through love.

This chapter brings to the forefront the emotional complexity of Sera and Nyktos’s relationship. While Nyktos clearly cares for Sera, his inability to love complicates the prophecy that could save her life. Sera’s destiny as the Primal of Life grows clearer, but so does the threat from Kolis, who may stop at nothing to reclaim what he believes is his. Sera’s struggle to accept her fate, her past lives, and her inevitable death sets the tone for the intense emotional and political stakes that lie ahead.

Chapter 2 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Location: Throne Room, House of Haides

Three days later, Sera finds herself confronted by a shocking revelation: she is the Primal of Life. Nyktos kneels before her, honoring her new role, despite her disbelief. Sera is overwhelmed by the new responsibilities that come with being the most powerful being in all the realms. Nyktos, Sir Holland, and Penellaphe explain the embers of life within her and how she holds the potential to shape the fate of both Iliseeum and the mortal realm.

Nyktos's Past
Sera learns that Nyktos is incapable of love, having had his kardia—the part of the soul that allows for love—removed by Maia, the Primal of Love. His choice stems from his desire to avoid repeating the mistakes of his father, Eythos, and his uncle, Kolis, who were both deeply impacted by love.

The Mortal Realm’s Fate
Sera is horrified to discover that the mortal realm only has a few years left before it succumbs to the Rot. She debates warning her stepsister, Ezra, but both Nyktos and Penellaphe urge her to reconsider, believing that the truth would cause panic and chaos.

Ezra’s New Role
Sera learns that Ezra has taken the throne of Lasania after Sera’s disappearance and is now Queen, having married Marisol.

Protective Measures
To protect Sera from being taken by anyone, Vikter, the first viktor, places a protective charm on her. This charm will retaliate if anyone attempts to abduct her, even a Primal.

Nyktos’s Concerns
Nyktos warns Sera that they will likely receive unwanted visitors, as the gods and Primals will be curious about the surge of power that accompanied Bele’s Ascension.

Chapter 3 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Location: Nyktos's Chambers, House of Haides

Sera questions the value of the coronation, knowing her death from the Culling is inevitable in less than five months. Nyktos insists that becoming his Consort will afford her protection, even if it doesn’t change her fate. They discuss Sera’s seeming indifference to her own death, which frustrates Nyktos. He accuses her of not valuing her own life, which sparks a heated debate. Sera acknowledges the grim reality of her situation but is unwilling to admit how much it weighs on her.

Nyktos's Frustration
Nyktos reveals that what truly enrages him is not Sera’s initial plan to kill him, but her complete disregard for her own survival. He urges her to value her life more, but Sera pushes back, arguing that her life has always been seen as a tool for others' purposes. They end the conversation unresolved as Nyktos is called away to deal with a disturbance at the Pillars of Asphodel.

An Attack on the Red Woods
A sudden attack shakes the palace, and Sera rushes to her balcony. She sees draken and silver flames burning through the Red Woods, threatening to unearth the entombed gods. Realizing the severity of the situation, Sera insists on helping, despite the protests of Orphine, the draken assigned to protect her.

Tension with Orphine
Orphine tries to keep Sera inside, explaining that if the draken continues burning the forest, it could release hundreds of fallen gods. Despite the dangers, Sera refuses to hide and insists on going to the battlefield, forcing Orphine to begrudgingly accompany her.

Chaos Erupts
As Sera and Orphine head into the chaos outside the palace, they prepare to face the full extent of the attack on the Shadowlands.

Chapter 4 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Location: Courtyard, House of Haides

The Attack Intensifies

As the battle against the fallen gods continues, chaos erupts in the courtyard. Sera witnesses the horrifying impact of draken blood burning the guards alive. The tan draken wreaks havoc until Nektas arrives, engaging the enemy in a fierce aerial battle. Meanwhile, hordes of entombed gods flood through the gates, overwhelming the defenses. Sera joins the fight with Orphine and other warriors, battling the fallen gods and struggling to maintain control amidst the carnage.

Sera's Internal Struggle

The intensity of the battle triggers Sera’s embers, compelling her to heal the wounded. When she sees Davina mortally wounded, Sera fights the urge to resurrect her, knowing it would expose her powers further. This internal struggle showcases Sera’s conflicting desires—her inherent instinct to protect life versus the consequences of revealing her ember of life.

The Arrival of Nyktos

As the battle rages, Nyktos arrives in his Primal form, radiating eather and shadows. His terrifying yet majestic presence shifts the tide of the battle as he effortlessly tears apart a fallen god. After the fight, Nyktos is visibly concerned for Sera, who has sustained multiple wounds. He insists on helping her heal by offering his blood, which she reluctantly accepts.

Blood and Desire

Drinking Nyktos’s blood has a profound effect on Sera, amplifying her senses and creating an intense connection between them. The scene becomes charged with desire, as Nyktos admits the powerful effects of his blood and the inevitable draw it creates between them. Sera feels a rush of warmth and peace from his blood, yet her emotions are clouded by an overwhelming physical need, leaving both her and Nyktos struggling with the consequences.

Chapter 5 Recap - A Light in the Flame

 Location: House of Haides, Nyktos’s Chambers and Courtyard
The Intense Aftermath
After their intimate moment, Sera is overwhelmed by her desires, inflamed by Nyktos’s Primal blood flowing through her. Nyktos, trying to remain composed, acknowledges the deep effects his blood has on Sera but insists that her feelings stem from more than just his blood. The scene is charged with passion as Sera’s emotions and physical urges heighten, though their moment is interrupted by Nektas, reminding them of the ongoing dangers.

The War Room Meeting
An hour later, Sera joins Nyktos and his trusted advisors in the war room to discuss the recent attack. The attack by the entombed gods and draken, commanded by an unknown Primal, has left the group on high alert. The council deliberates over who could be responsible, with Bele believing it may be Hanan, a Primal with personal grievances. Sera feels responsible for the chaos, knowing the embers of life inside her are a target for many powerful beings. Despite this, she tries to remind Bele that her actions were necessary to save her life.

Tension Between Sera and Nyktos
During the meeting, tension is palpable between Sera and Nyktos. Sera notices his regret after their earlier encounter, feeling distanced from him once again. His protective nature conflicts with the harsh realities of the situation, making it clear that their personal desires cannot override the responsibilities they both face. The brief moment of peace they shared vanishes, replaced by the heavy weight of the war they are fighting.

Sera's Decision
Realizing the danger she poses to everyone in the Shadowlands, Sera comes to a painful decision. She knows her true purpose is to stop Kolis, the false Primal of Life, even if it means sacrificing herself. Believing that the embers in her blood are too important to be hidden away, Sera decides to leave the safety of the House of Haides and fulfill her destiny, even if it costs her life. She escapes through the courtyard, determined to reach Lethe and find a way to Dalos, the City of the Gods, where Kolis holds Court.
This chapter is a turning point where Sera fully embraces her dangerous purpose. 

Chapter 6 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Sera's Mission
Location: Palace of Nyktos, Shadowlands
Sera begins her quest in the Palace of Nyktos, preparing to face new challenges. She's surrounded by Nyktos's guards and is trying to adjust to her role as Consort while hiding her true purpose. Nyktos remains distant, leaving Sera with doubts and frustrations. Her interactions with the guards show her uncertainty about where she belongs in the palace.

A Fateful Decision
Location: Throne Room, Palace of Nyktos
Sera faces a crossroads when Nyktos asks for her support in handling matters of the realm. Although she has her secret mission, she feels compelled to involve herself in his world. She learns more about the palace, its politics, and the responsibilities of her role as Consort. Sera struggles internally with her duty to kill Kolis and her growing feelings for Nyktos.

First Encounter with the Draken

Location: Training Grounds, Shadowlands
While exploring the grounds, Sera encounters the Draken for the first time—legendary creatures of the Shadowlands. She’s awed by their presence but feels intimidated by their power. Nyktos arrives just in time to introduce her to them, which adds a layer of tension to their already complicated relationship. Sera begins to understand the weight of her role in a land where such creatures exist.

The Weight of Power
Location: Gardens, Palace of Nyktos
Sera reflects on her growing powers in the serene gardens, but peace doesn't last. She encounters her first real test as a Consort when a group of gods confronts her. Their disdain for her mortal origins threatens to reveal her hidden strength. Nyktos watches from afar, waiting to see how she handles herself, which leads to a tense interaction where she must hide her true abilities.

A Deepening Connection
Location: Nyktos's Chambers, Palace of Nyktos
After a night filled with political turmoil and battling enemies of the realm, Nyktos and Sera share a moment in his chambers. The intimacy between them grows, but Sera remains torn between her mission to kill Kolis and her undeniable attraction to Nyktos. Their bond strengthens even as Sera’s internal conflict deepens, leaving her to question her ability to go through with her plan.

Chapter 7 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Nyktos's Fury

Location: Dying Woods, Shadowlands

Sera’s outburst of pure eather strikes Nyktos unexpectedly, causing a violent reaction in him. Nyktos’s wings spread as he fights against the power she accidentally unleashed. Sera panics, fearing that she’s harmed him. Nektas, sensing the danger, swoops in to protect Sera from Nyktos's potential retaliation. However, Nyktos reassures Sera that Nektas is protecting her from his instinctive reaction, not from him intentionally harming her. As the intensity fades, Nyktos struggles to regain control over the situation, leaving Sera filled with guilt.

A Deadly Power Awakens

Location: Dying Woods, Shadowlands

After Nyktos recovers, Sera explains to him what happened during the encounter with the Shade. She reveals that her touch had begun to bring the Shade back to life, an act she didn’t mean to do. Nyktos and Nektas are taken aback by this revelation, realizing that her power is tied to the embers of life within her. Nektas advises Sera to avoid touching the dead until she has better control of her powers, which are far stronger than initially believed. After Nyktos recovers, Sera explains to him what happened during the encounter with the Shade. She reveals that her touch had begun to bring the Shade back to life, an act she didn’t mean to do. Nyktos and Nektas are taken aback by this revelation, realizing that her power is tied to the embers of life within her. Nektas advises Sera to avoid touching the dead until she has better control of her powers, which are far stronger than initially believed.

A Dangerous Bond

Location: Nyktos’s Chambers, Palace of Nyktos

Nyktos brings Sera back to the palace, but their conversation turns into an argument. Sera confronts Nyktos about holding her captive, feeling trapped in her role as Consort. Nyktos makes it clear that she has two choices: remain his Consort or be his prisoner. Tensions rise between them as Sera grapples with her failed mission to kill Kolis. Despite her anger, Nyktos tries to reason with her, promising that he will find another way to protect her from her fate.

A Night of Tension

Location: Nyktos’s Chambers, Palace of Nyktos

Nyktos insists that Sera stays within arm’s reach as they sleep, not trusting her after her recent escape attempt. As they lie in bed together, Sera is overwhelmed by the close proximity and the unresolved emotions between them. Despite the growing tension, exhaustion takes over, and Sera falls asleep. In the middle of the night, Nyktos, in a dream-like state, pleads with her to never go after Kolis again. Moved by his vulnerability, Sera makes a promise she knows she shouldn't keep.

Chapter 8 Recap - A Light in the Flame

The Weight of a Promise

Location: Palace of Nyktos, Shadowlands

Sera wakes up alone, her last words to Nyktos, a promise to not go after Kolis, weighing heavily on her. Guilt and uncertainty flood her as she prepares for the day. Orphine arrives to escort her to Nyktos, and Sera apologizes for making her feel like she failed in her duty. To Sera's surprise, Orphine respects her bravery for risking everything, even though it would have ended disastrously.

A Symbolic Meeting
Location: Throne Room, Palace of Nyktos
Sera is led to the throne room, where hundreds of Nyktos’s most trusted guards and gods have gathered. Confused and nervous, she’s brought before them all, and Nyktos stands beside her, holding her hand. He addresses the gathered crowd, praising Sera’s bravery and willingness to sacrifice herself for the Shadowlands, even without having taken any oaths or worn the crown of Consort yet.

A Public Acknowledgment
Location: Throne Room, Palace of Nyktos
Nyktos’s speech honors Sera for her courage and acknowledges her actions in a way she has never experienced before. For the first time, Sera feels recognized for who she is and not just for what she can do. The guards, including Ector, pledge their loyalty to her, swearing to protect her as she stands on the threshold of becoming the Consort of the Primal of Death. Nyktos’s words not only cement Sera’s place among his people but also eliminate any chance of them helping her in future attempts to reach Kolis.

Nyktos’s Loyalty
Location: Throne Room, Palace of Nyktos
Nyktos promises Sera that if anyone harbors ill will toward her, he will personally ensure their demise. The sincerity of his threat is undeniable, and Sera is torn between wanting to strangle Nyktos for cornering her in this way and being touched by his public show of support. His actions have ensured that she is seen as someone worthy of respect and protection, leaving Sera feeling more than just a vessel of destiny or the embers she carries.

Chapter 9 Recap - A Light in the Flame

A Morning With Nektas and Jadis
Location: Nyktos's Office, Palace of Nyktos, Shadowlands
After being led away from the throne room, Sera encounters Nektas and his daughter, Jadis, in Nyktos's office. Jadis, in her draken form, takes a liking to Sera, demanding to be picked up. As Sera holds her, she struggles with her newfound powers and fears hurting those around her, especially after what happened to Nyktos.

A Conversation of Loss
Location: Nyktos's Office, Palace of Nyktos
Nektas and Sera share a conversation about loss and heartmates. Nektas reveals that draken, including his mate Halayna, believe in the concept of heartmates—two halves that make a whole. The discussion reminds Sera of her mother, who lost her father the night she was born, and it gives her insight into how love and loss can shape individuals. Nektas also reveals more about draken burial rites and how they deal with the dead.

Speculations on the Embers
Location: Nyktos's Office, Palace of Nyktos
As they talk, Sera tries to justify her actions the previous night and argues that if she reaches Kolis, she could succeed in stopping him. Nektas and Nyktos arrive, and the conversation turns to Sera’s embers and how removing them might save her life. Nyktos suggests that removing the embers, much like what Kolis did to his father Eythos, might prevent Sera’s death. This sparks hope, though Sera remains skeptical of the process.

A Potential Solution
Location: Nyktos's Office, Palace of Nyktos
Nyktos suggests they seek out Delfai, the God of Divination, who may hold the knowledge needed to remove the embers. Though Sera is eager to leave immediately, Nyktos insists she must wait until after the coronation for her safety. The conversation ends with the possibility that Nyktos might be able to reclaim his destiny as the Primal of Life by taking the embers from Sera, offering a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dangerous situation.

Chapter 10 Recap - A Light in the Flame

 A Family Moment with Nektas and Jadis

Location: Nyktos’s Office, Palace of Nyktos, Shadowlands

Sera watches Nektas carry his sleeping daughter, Jadis, to her nursery after a playful interaction. Nyktos expresses surprise that Sera managed to get Jadis to eat with a fork, something he’s struggled with. The conversation leads to a revelation about Nektas’s history: he was the first dragon to take mortal form, and he gave fire to the first mortals created by Nyktos’s father, Eythos.

Halayna’s Death
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Palace of Nyktos
Nyktos reveals that Jadis’s mother, Halayna, was murdered by Kolis as punishment for Nektas’s loyalty to Nyktos and Eythos. Sera’s heart breaks for Nektas, understanding the deep loss he has endured. They also discuss the longevity of draken and the impossibility of killing a Primal without the right reason.

Nyktos's Plan and Sotoria’s Secret
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Palace of Nyktos
Sera questions Nyktos about his plan to become the Primal of Life by absorbing the embers from her. He reassures her that only a select few know about her embers, and none know the secret of Sotoria’s soul within her, as that knowledge could put them all at risk. They also discuss Nyktos’s potential to Ascend the Chosen and the outdated Rite of Ascension.

The Uncertainty of Kolis’s Fate
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Palace of Nyktos
Sera questions what will happen to Kolis if Nyktos succeeds. Nyktos admits that Kolis may only be weakened enough to be entombed, not killed. Sera insists that she could be the one to kill him, but Nyktos demands she keep her promise not to pursue that path, reinforcing the fragility of his trust in her.

A World Without the Rot
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Palace of Nyktos
Nyktos promises that once the embers are inside him, the Rot will vanish from the mortal realm, bringing immense relief to Sera as she imagines a future where Lasania can thrive again. They also discuss the inability to export food from Iliseeum to the mortal realm due to the essence affecting it. The conversation turns to the Shadowlands, and Nyktos reminisces about the vibrant, beautiful place it once was, long before it fell to the Rot.

The Coronation and Tradition
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Palace of Nyktos
With the coronation approaching, Nyktos explains the traditions surrounding it, including their separation the day before the ceremony to ward off bad luck. He will crown her before high-ranking gods and Primals, and the feast will follow if all goes well. Nyktos assures Sera she will be heavily guarded, though Sera insists she doesn’t need protection. Nyktos counters, saying everyone needs someone to watch over them—even him.

An Unexpected Visitor: The Cimmerian
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Palace of Nyktos
Saion interrupts to announce that the Cimmerian, gods born as warriors, have arrived at the gates. Nyktos prepares for possible conflict, explaining that the Cimmerian are dangerous, feeding off eather to grow stronger and fight. Nyktos insists Sera remain behind for her own safety, leaving Saion to guard her. However, Sera struggles with the idea of sitting by while Nyktos and the others face danger, and by the end of the chapter, she decides she can’t stand idle any longer and makes a bold move to help.

Chapter 11 Recap - A Light in the Flame

The Fight Begins  

Location:The Rise, Shadowlands  

Sera, despite Saion’s protests, climbs the stairs of the Rise to join the battle. Armed with a bow and arrows, she hides behind the parapet and surveys the confrontation between Nyktos and the Cimmerian warriors. Led by Dorcan, the Cimmerian demand the goddess Bele be handed over. Nyktos refuses, exchanging sharp words with Dorcan. Tensions escalate as Dorcan hints at the Primal Hanan’s displeasure, and a fight breaks out.

Sera Joins the Fight

Location:The Rise, Shadowlands  

Sera begins shooting arrows at the Cimmerian warriors from her hidden position, killing several. Despite Saion’s warning to stay hidden, she continues to aid Nyktos and the others, targeting those warriors conjuring a shadowy mist that gives them an advantage. The battle intensifies, and Sera’s heart races as she watches Nyktos skillfully fight Dorcan and other Cimmerian, managing to hold his own against overwhelming odds.

Nyktos’s Warning

Location:The Rise, Shadowlands  

At one point, Nyktos notices Sera’s presence, locking eyes with her as she takes out a Cimmerian attacking him from behind. There’s a brief moment of unspoken acknowledgment between them. However, the battle takes a dangerous turn when a void of utter blackness conjured by the Cimmerian begins to overtake the Rise, swallowing the light and leaving Sera vulnerable. She is forced to defend herself, relying on her senses to fight in the darkness.

Nyktos’s Close Call

Location: The Rise, Shadowlands  

Sera manages to fend off a Cimmerian warrior using a shadowstone spear, but just as the night clears, Nyktos appears, pulling her close and saving her from an attack. Their moment of closeness sparks undeniable tension, as Nyktos struggles with his desire for Sera. He warns her that if he tastes her blood again, he might not be able to stop. Despite the danger and tension, Nyktos remains protective, urging Sera to stay safe while the battle rages on.

Nektas Enters the Fray

Location:  The Rise, Shadowlands  

As the battle intensifies, Nektas, in his draken form, arrives, joining the fight with deadly efficiency, ripping a Cimmerian warrior in half. Sera watches in awe and disgust as the draken wreaks havoc on the enemy. Meanwhile, Nyktos confronts Dorcan for the last time.

The End of Dorcan  

Location:The Rise, Shadowlands  

After the loss of five of Nyktos’s men, Nyktos approaches Dorcan, who tries to deliver a final warning, stating that Hanan will retaliate and send more forces. Nyktos, unphased, swiftly decapitates Dorcan, ending the confrontation. Sera senses that this battle is just the beginning, as more threats loom on the horizon from the other Primals.

Chapter 12 Recap - A Light in the Flame

After the Battle

Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands

Sera is pacing back and forth in Nyktos’s office after the intense battle, feeling tense and anxious. Rhain and Ector are there with her, Rhain still distrusting her after everything that’s happened. Ector, however, surprisingly defends Sera, pointing out that she saved Rhain’s life during the fight with the Cimmerian. Despite the tension between them, Sera doesn’t care for Rhain’s gratitude, but Rhain remains skeptical of her loyalty.

Nyktos's Confrontation

Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands

Nyktos storms into the room, clearly upset that Sera disobeyed him by joining the fight. He scolds her for risking her life and Saion’s, but Sera pushes back, insisting that she won’t be ordered around. In a heated exchange, Sera declares that she’s done with living under someone else’s control and demands the right to make her own choices. Nyktos, clearly frustrated but also struggling with her words, pauses to process what she’s said.

A Moment of Calm

Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands

Once Rhain and Ector leave, Nyktos apologizes to Sera, which takes her by surprise. They share a drink as Nyktos tends to her wound from the battle. Sera questions why Nyktos’s touch used to be warm, and Nyktos reveals it was because of the embers of life she carries in her. Their conversation shifts to the danger Sera faced in the mortal realm, with Nyktos growing angry as she recounts her experiences with Tavius and the abuse she endured.

Nyktos's Dark Offer

Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands

Nyktos, deeply affected by Sera’s past, offers to kill her mother and take her soul into the Abyss as punishment for her cruelty. Sera, despite the dark temptation, refuses, knowing it wouldn’t bring her peace. Nyktos makes a grim joke about knowing someone who could help if she ever changes her mind, and Sera, emotionally exhausted, laughs.

A Necessary Rest

Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands

Nyktos warns Sera that she needs to rest, as the Culling is weakening her, and pushing herself further could lead to more severe consequences. He points out that the embers of life in her are strong, noting that the shadowstone cut she received should have been fatal, but the embers have been protecting her in ways even she hasn’t realized yet. As the two share a brief moment of connection, Nyktos leaves her to rest, but Sera remains uncertain about the future.

Chapter 13 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Restless Thoughts

Location: Sera’s Bedchamber, Shadowlands

Returning to her room, Sera finds a padlock on the balcony doors, a sign of Nyktos's efforts to keep her from leaving, but she can't help but smirk, thinking how easily she could pick it if needed. After eating dinner alone and trying to distract herself with a book, her mind keeps drifting to Nyktos. Thoughts of him quickly turn heated, and despite her attempts to sleep, she can’t help but fantasize about him.

A Presence in the Shadows

Location: Sera’s Bedchamber, Shadowlands

As Sera begins to touch herself, imagining Nyktos, she senses a shift in the room—an awareness. Her suspicions grow when she feels Nyktos’s presence, a mixture of shadows and energy swirling around her. Despite the intensity of the moment, she doesn’t stop. In fact, the idea of him watching her excites her more. Shadows, icy and hot, brush over her body, amplifying her pleasure. Convinced Nyktos is there, she continues until she climaxes, feeling the shadows recede. Afterward, Sera senses him even closer and eventually drifts off to sleep, certain that Nyktos had been in the room.

The Morning After

Location: Sera’s Bedchamber, Shadowlands

The next morning, Nektas brings Sera breakfast, and she can’t help but think about the previous night. She tries to act normal, but the memory lingers, making her feel both embarrassed and thrilled. As they talk, Nektas mentions Nyktos’s Culling and how it impacted his sleep. Sera, still trying to process her own feelings, plays it off, but her thoughts remain on Nyktos and what might happen next.

Jadis’s Mischief

Location: Shadowlands, Receiving Chamber

Sera joins Nektas and Jadis, the little draken, on an adventure around the palace. They end up in a receiving chamber where Jadis and Reaver, another young draken, engage in playful chaos. Jadis’s temper flares when she can’t reach Reaver, resulting in a full-blown draken tantrum, which leads to a chair catching on fire. Sera, trying to control the situation, manages to put out the fire just as Nektas returns, laughing at the sight of his daughter’s mischief.

Confronting Nyktos

Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands

Later, Sera and Nektas visit Nyktos in his office. Nyktos is playful with Jadis, but the tension between him and Sera is palpable. When Nyktos makes a comment about Sera’s gown, suggesting it’s inappropriate, Sera is initially insulted, but he quickly apologizes. Despite his apology, Sera is left frustrated by his behavior, especially given the intimacy they shared the night before.

The Army and the Future

Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands

As the conversation shifts, Sera questions Nyktos about his army and the Cimmerian’s remarks during the battle. She presses him on why his army didn’t help during the attack and what his long-term plans are concerning Kolis. Nyktos is vague, but Sera senses that he’s preparing for something much larger—perhaps even a war against Kolis. This realization deepens her concern about the future and the role she will play in it.

Chapter 14 Recap - A Light in the Flame

A Future Unclear
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
Nyktos and Sera engage in a tense conversation about a potential war against Kolis. Nyktos is evasive, refusing to confirm any plans for war, but Sera suspects otherwise. The tension shifts as Sera reflects on her uncertain future. If the embers of life are removed and she becomes Nyktos’s Consort, will they continue to live separate lives, or will she have a place in his rule?

Teasing and Frustration
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
Determined to push Nyktos, Sera engages in playful yet seductive teasing. Nyktos tries to remain focused on writing names in the Book of the Dead, but Sera’s antics break his concentration. The banter between them grows more heated, and Nyktos warns her not to try seducing him. Their exchange becomes more intimate, with Sera boldly addressing the fact that Nyktos had watched her the previous night in her bedchamber. She challenges his claim that they can only be Consorts in title, asking what she is supposed to do about her desires. Nyktos responds possessively, making it clear that no one else can satisfy her needs but him.

The Arrival of Attes
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
Their conversation is interrupted by the unexpected arrival of Attes, the Primal of Accord and War. Nyktos pulls Sera onto his lap, instructing her to stay put. As Attes enters, the tension in the room escalates. Attes, a dangerous and skilled warrior, is curious about Sera and the gossip surrounding Nyktos’s soon-to-be Consort. Nyktos asserts his possessiveness over Sera, making it clear to Attes that she belongs to him. Their conversation is laced with subtle threats, as Attes questions Nyktos’s recent actions, including the deaths of Cimmerian warriors and Nyktos’s handling of his Court.

The Growing Threat of Kolis
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
Attes reveals that the Primals are concerned about the recent Ascension of a god in the Shadowlands and the growing tension surrounding Nyktos. He suggests that Kolis believes Nyktos may have used embers of life to Ascend a god, a claim Nyktos neither confirms nor denies. Attes then delivers a chilling message from Kolis: The King of Gods has denied Nyktos the right to his coronation. This declaration signals that the conflict between Nyktos and Kolis is far from over, and the stakes have just been raised.
 

Chapter 15 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Kolis’s Interference
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
Attes delivers the news that Kolis has denied Nyktos’s coronation plans, demanding Nyktos gain his permission before crowning Sera as his Consort. This creates immediate tension, as the coronation is postponed indefinitely. Sera reacts with shock and anger, voicing her frustrations, while Nyktos remains disturbingly calm, knowing this interference could jeopardize everything. Attes leaves after making a flirtatious offer to Sera, provoking Nyktos’s barely restrained rage.

A Dangerous Distraction
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
Nyktos, on the verge of losing control due to his anger at Kolis and Attes, asks Sera to distract him. In response, she kisses him, reigniting the intense passion between them. Their kiss is fierce and consuming, but Nyktos admits afterward that her presence is the only thing keeping him from acting on his violent impulses. Despite the heated moment, Sera challenges Nyktos on his behavior toward Attes, and they discuss the nature of Attes’s interests and intentions.

The Problem with Kolis
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
As the discussion turns back to Kolis, Nyktos reveals the historical precedent for seeking the King of Gods’ permission for coronations. However, Kolis’s demand signals his growing suspicion and possible desire to uncover the truth behind the embers of life. Nyktos shares that he plans to lie about their origin to protect Sera, and Nektas and Ector join in the conversation, warning that Kolis may use this opportunity to demand information about the Ascended god.

Attes’s Suspicions
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
Nyktos also reveals that Attes may have sensed Sera’s immunity to his Primal powers, raising the dangerous possibility that Attes suspects she carries the embers of life. Sera realizes the implications of Attes’s discovery and the looming threat of Kolis’s summon, which could expose her identity. This adds another layer of urgency and tension to the already precarious situation.

A Test of Trust
Location: Nyktos’s Office, Shadowlands
Tensions between Sera and Nyktos rise again as Nyktos questions whether Sera is determined to answer Kolis’s summon to fulfill her duty or because of her desire for revenge. Sera is angered by the accusation and storms out, feeling conflicted about her role in the unfolding events and the growing pressure on her to protect the embers. Nektas follows her, offering insight into Nyktos’s history with Kolis and the weight of duty that drives his decisions.

 
 

Chapter 16 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Restless Energy
Location: Sera’s Bedchamber
Unable to sit still, Sera spends her afternoon training alone to clear her mind of worries about Kolis’s summons, her destiny, and Nyktos. As she shadowboxes and practices footwork, exhaustion sets in quicker than it should, leaving her wondering if the Culling is affecting her. Later, she struggles to find peace, her mind racing with thoughts of what Kolis might do if he recognizes her as Sotoria. Despite her fears, Sera knows that Nyktos will protect her, but that protection comes with a heavy price.

Confrontation and Apology
Location: Sera and Nyktos’s Bedchamber
Nyktos enters Sera’s bedchamber without knocking, intent on keeping her within arm’s reach to ensure she doesn’t attempt to escape again. Sera reluctantly follows him to his bed, her thoughts lingering on the deal she had offered him earlier, and the tension between them is palpable. As they prepare for bed, Nyktos softly apologizes for questioning her motives earlier, acknowledging that he was wrong about her main reason for facing Kolis. He promises not to leave her behind when the summons comes, offering a sense of reassurance.

Nighttime Confessions
Location: Nyktos’s Bedchamber
In a rare moment of vulnerability, Nyktos asks why Sera often holds her breath. She admits it’s a habit taught by Holland, though she doesn’t fully understand why she still does it. Nyktos lies beside her, comforting her with his presence. However, their shared intimacy highlights the growing emotional connection between them, despite the dangerous situation they both face with Kolis’s looming interference.

Mourning What Could Have Been
Location: Sera’s Bedchamber
The next morning, which should have been her coronation day, Sera finds herself in a morose mood. As she reflects on her life and all the missed opportunities and failures, she is overwhelmed by feelings of idleness and purposelessness. Struggling to escape her negative thoughts, she leaves her chambers and takes breakfast in another room, seeking comfort in new surroundings and conversation.

Saion’s Story
Location: Receiving Chamber
During breakfast, Sera engages Saion in conversation, asking about his past. Saion reveals he was born in Phanos’s Court in the Triton Isles but left after witnessing the destruction of the Kingdom of Phythe. He recounts how Phanos wiped out the kingdom for discontinuing games held in his honor, an event that horrified Saion and others enough to leave the Court. He and Rhahar were later captured and taken to Dalos for punishment, but Nyktos intervened and claimed them as his own, saving their lives. Saion’s story reveals more about Nyktos’s cunning and ability to protect those he cares about.

Chapter 17 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Saion’s Revelation Continues
Location: Receiving Chamber
Sera is taken aback as Saion reveals how Nyktos saved his and Rhahar's lives. After they left Phanos’s Court in protest of his destruction of the Kingdom of Phythe, they were captured and faced punishment. Nyktos intervened by taking their souls, claiming them as his own, which prevented any other Primal from harming them. This act showcased Nyktos’s cunning and protective nature. Sera realizes the depth of Nyktos’s power and the lengths he will go to protect those he cares about.

A Need for Purpose
Location: Hallway and Courtyard Entrance
Overwhelmed by the weight of her thoughts and feeling restless, Sera decides she cannot return to her chambers. She hears the sounds of metal clashing and is drawn to the courtyard, where she sees Nyktos and his guards training. Observing them ignites her desire to regain a sense of purpose through training.

Challenging Authority
Location: Courtyard
Determined to join the training, Sera asks Saion to spar with her, but he refuses, fearing Nyktos’s wrath. Undeterred, she approaches Nyktos directly, interrupting the session. In front of all the guards, she boldly challenges him to a duel, even taking a sword from Saion to demonstrate her seriousness.

The Sparring Match
Location: Courtyard
Sera and Nyktos engage in a spirited sparring match filled with sharp banter and tension. As they duel, Sera skillfully matches Nyktos's moves, surprising both him and the onlooking guards. Their exchanges are both physical and verbal, with Sera using the opportunity to voice her frustrations and desires.

Voicing Her Demands
Location: Courtyard
During the duel, Sera outlines what she wants: to continue her training, attend Court immediately, be involved in plans concerning Kolis, visit the Vale sooner rather than later despite the risks, and see her stepsister Ezra in the mortal realm. She insists on taking an active role rather than being kept in the dark or confined.

A Test of Skill and Will
Location: Courtyard
Nyktos listens as they continue to spar, testing her both physically and mentally. Sera demonstrates her combat abilities, even managing to catch Nyktos off guard with her tactics. The guards watch with amusement and respect as she holds her own against the Primal of Death.

A Triumphant Stand
Location: Courtyard
The sparring match culminates with Sera cleverly disarming Nyktos and holding a dagger to his throat, asserting her capabilities and determination. Impressed, Nyktos acknowledges her skills. Satisfied that she has made her point, Sera decides to return to her chambers, leaving the training grounds with a sense of accomplishment. The guards applaud her performance, and even Nyktos seems both amused and intrigued by her boldness.

Chapter 18 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Unexpected Gestures of Kindness
Location: Sera's Bedchamber and Nyktos’s Bathing Chamber
A young mortal servant, Paxton, arrives to check on Sera, offering fresh water for her bath. After some playful banter and a discussion about ogling, Nyktos enters, shirtless and dripping wet, much to Sera’s distraction. Paxton insists Nyktos can use his powers to heat the water, leading to a lighthearted exchange. Nyktos decides to personally heat the bathwater for Sera, showing an unexpected moment of kindness, though Sera feels undeserving of it.

Nyktos’s Thoughtfulness
Location: Nyktos’s Bathing Chamber
Nyktos leads Sera into his bathing chamber, where he has prepared a luxurious bubble bath for her. Realizing the trauma she might feel from using her own bathing chamber after the dakkai attack, Nyktos offers her a safe place to bathe. The gesture overwhelms Sera emotionally, feeling both touched and unworthy of such thoughtfulness. Nyktos reassures her, stating that everyone deserves peace and safety while bathing. Sera struggles to reconcile her feelings, knowing that Nyktos’s actions are full of kindness, even though she still harbors guilt for her past intentions.

A Heated Exchange
Location: Nyktos’s Bathing Chamber
As Sera relaxes in the bath, Nyktos returns, silently watching over her. He uses his eather to reheat the water, an intimate display of his power. As the tension between them builds, Sera feels his gaze roam over her, stirring a mix of desire and frustration. She accuses him of ogling, challenging him for his continued avoidance of their attraction. The conversation becomes more intense as Sera confronts him about their mutual desire and his reluctance to admit it. Nyktos's power flares as Sera taunts him, revealing her own courage to acknowledge her feelings.

Unresolved Tension
Location: Nyktos’s Bathing Chamber
Sera continues to provoke Nyktos, pushing him to admit his desire for her. She stands from the bath, exposing herself to him in a bold act of defiance, claiming her own control over the situation. Nyktos’s reaction is immediate and powerful, filled with barely controlled tension. As Sera tries to leave, Nyktos stops her, asserting that she is not excused, signaling that their confrontation is far from over.
 

Chapter 19 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Escalating Tensions
Location: Nyktos’s Bathing Chamber
Sera tries to break free from Nyktos's hold, teasing him once more about his inability to resist her. Nyktos doesn’t hold back this time, admitting with raw honesty how much he desires her, his words laced with vivid, unrestrained passion. He reveals that he’s been dreaming of her and wanting her, confessing that he’s been consumed by the thought of her ever since their previous encounters. His confessions hit Sera with a mix of emotions, leaving her breathless as he describes the intensity of his attraction.

Lust and Vulnerability
Location: Nyktos’s Bathing Chamber
Nyktos’s desire reaches a breaking point, and he lets go of his restraint, pulling Sera into an intensely passionate encounter. He takes control, showing her just how deeply he’s been affected by her, both physically and emotionally. The heat between them escalates as he forces her to confront the mutual intensity of their attraction, blurring the line between physical desire and emotional need.

Mutual Exploration
Location: Nyktos’s Bathing Chamber
Sera doesn’t back down from Nyktos’s challenges, meeting his intensity with her own. She teases him, daring him to prove his desire for her. Nyktos obliges, and the physical tension that has been building between them culminates in an explosive, intimate moment. Sera, confident in her desires, takes control in ways that drive Nyktos to the edge. Both characters give in fully to their lust, shedding any pretense as they find mutual satisfaction in each other.

After the Storm

Location: Nyktos’s Bedchamber
After the intensity of their encounter, Nyktos wraps Sera in a towel and carries her to his bed, where they lie together. For a brief moment, their defenses are lowered, and they share a rare vulnerability. Sera reflects on the intimacy they've shared, realizing it was different from before—this wasn’t driven by duty or power, but by genuine connection. Nyktos, though still complex and guarded, shows a softer side, even as Sera struggles with the reality of their situation.

A Peaceful Interlude
Location: Nyktos’s Bedchamber
Sera wakes to find Jadis, the young draken, curled up at her feet, and Nektas watching over them. The playful exchange between Sera and Nektas reveals the care and protectiveness surrounding her, as Nektas makes it clear that Nyktos values her deeply. Their conversation shifts to heavier topics, as Nektas explains that Nyktos holds Court in Lethe to remind his subjects that he is a present and engaged ruler. Sera realizes there’s still so much she doesn’t know about Nyktos and his responsibilities, but Nektas reassures her that Nyktos’s actions stem from understanding and acceptance, even if true forgiveness hasn’t yet come.

Understanding and Acceptance
Location: Nyktos’s Bedchamber
Nektas shares a profound insight with Sera, explaining that while forgiveness is easy, understanding and acceptance are much harder. He believes Nyktos has found peace with Sera’s past actions, and his acceptance of her is deeper than she realizes. Nektas leaves Sera with the realization that despite their complicated relationship, there’s a sense of peace between her and Nyktos—something that speaks volumes about their growing bond.

Chapter 20 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Self-Reflection
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Sera reflects on her recent experiences and the kindness Nyktos has shown her, especially regarding the clothing provided by Erlina. She starts to feel guilty for not showing more interest in Nyktos’s world outside of their intimate encounters, realizing she hasn't been proactive in learning about Lethe or the Shadowlands. Her internal struggle with vulnerability and open communication also surfaces, leaving her uncertain about how to approach him with her newfound interest in his realm.

A Thoughtful Supper
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Nyktos joins Sera for dinner, honoring her earlier request not to eat alone anymore. The gesture surprises and touches her deeply, making her realize how considerate he is. They share a quiet, intimate moment, during which Nyktos expresses concern about her health, especially after feeding from her earlier. He admits he should have been more cautious due to the toll the Culling is taking on her body.

Revelations and Planning
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Nyktos explains how he healed her bite wounds with his blood and acknowledges her strength during the Culling. Their conversation shifts to discussing more serious topics, like visiting Sera’s stepsister, Ezra, and their plan to visit the Pools of Divanash in two days. Nyktos’s protective nature becomes apparent, but Sera reassures him that she understands the difference between control and protection. They agree on a balance between the two, and Sera feels a growing sense of partnership with Nyktos.

The Burden of Leadership
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Nyktos opens up about the difficulty of ruling and the burden of holding Court, even handling mundane disputes between neighbors. Sera is surprised by his approach, but Nyktos explains that it reassures his people that they are safe and that he is not a distant, feared ruler. Their conversation deepens as Nyktos reveals more about the intricacies of his world, including his responsibilities as Primal and his complex relationship with Kolis.

Shades and Redemption
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Nyktos talks about the increasing number of souls refusing to cross over into the afterlife, turning into Shades instead. Despite Nektas’s belief that they should be destroyed immediately, Nyktos holds onto the hope that some may still find redemption. This conversation reveals Nyktos’s compassionate side and his internal struggle with balancing justice and mercy, which resonates deeply with Sera.

Acknowledging Nyktos’s Goodness
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Sera acknowledges Nyktos’s inherent goodness, telling him he deserves to be the true Primal of Life, not because it was his destiny, but because of his compassionate and fair nature. Nyktos, however, downplays her praise, warning her again that he is not as good as she believes. Despite this, Sera’s admiration for him only deepens, and she starts to see a future where they can both find peace.

Chapter 21 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Discussing Goodness

Location: Sera's Chambers
Nyktos and Sera engage in a deep conversation about morality and goodness. Sera continues to challenge Nyktos’s belief that he’s not inherently good, while revealing her own dark past and the lives she has taken. Despite her actions, Nyktos insists that she shows qualities of goodness, pointing out her willingness to sacrifice herself for others. Sera, however, struggles to accept his view, focusing on her feelings of shame and detachment over the lives she’s ended.

The Origin of Emotions in Primals
Location: Sera's Chambers
Nyktos tells Sera the story of how emotions entered the Primal world. Initially, Primals were impartial beings, neither good nor bad. It wasn’t until one Primal fell in love that emotions like love, jealousy, and hate spread among the Primals, leading to their eventual corruption. The Arae, the Fates, feared this development but were unable to prevent it. Nyktos explains that this is why Primals struggle with morality, as their powers and emotions create an unpredictable, raw force that defies traditional notions of good and evil.

The Shift in Their Relationship
Location: Nyktos's Chambers
The conversation leads to a new intimacy between Nyktos and Sera. Nyktos invites Sera to his chambers, where the dynamic between them shifts into a more intimate connection, different from anything they’ve shared before. Sera feels nervous but also anticipates this deeper connection. Nyktos gently undoes her braid, a tender gesture that sparks both desire and vulnerability in Sera.

Pleasure for Pleasure's Sake
Location: Nyktos's Chambers
Sera reaffirms her earlier offer of "pleasure for the sake of pleasure," which Nyktos eagerly accepts. What follows is a more meaningful and emotional encounter between them, unlike their previous interactions fueled by anger or necessity. Nyktos takes his time, exploring Sera’s body, counting her freckles, and slowly building their connection. The scene culminates in a physical and emotional closeness, marking a significant shift in their relationship.

"Liessa"
Location: Nyktos's Chambers
In the height of their intimacy, Nyktos calls Sera "Liessa," a title that means Consort or Queen, solidifying her place in his life in a way that is far more personal than political. This moment is charged with not only physical passion but also emotional depth, reflecting the growing bond between them.
 

Chapter 22 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Visiting Ezra
Location: Mortal Realm
Nyktos and Sera leave the Shadowlands, traveling to the mortal realm to visit Sera’s stepsister, Ezra, who is now the Queen of Lasania. Nyktos remains mostly quiet during the journey, while Sera focuses on the excitement of seeing her lake and reuniting with Ezra. As they ride Odin, Nyktos reassures Sera that they will return to the lake when it is safe. Upon reaching the edge of Wayfair Castle, Sera suggests they walk the remaining distance to avoid drawing unnecessary attention.

Changes in Wayfair
Location: Wayfair Castle
Upon arriving, Sera notices that Wayfair Castle has changed. The gates are open, and commoners are milling about, a stark difference from the restricted access in the past. Ezra has clearly made reforms, allowing the people of Lasania more access to the castle, which surprises Sera. They navigate through the bustling grounds, and as they enter the castle, Nyktos explains that the people can feel his presence, even if they don’t know what it is. His aura unsettles them, which is natural given that he is the Primal of Death.

Reuniting with Ezra
Location: Great Hall
Sera and Nyktos enter the Great Hall, where Ezra is hosting a town hall meeting, sitting among the people instead of ruling from a throne. When a guard informs Ezra that Sera has arrived, she’s shocked and quickly dismisses the court. The reunion between the sisters is emotional but tempered by the urgency of Sera’s mission. Ezra, though surprised to see Nyktos, composes herself, and Sera quickly explains the true nature of the Rot and that the deal with the Primal was not the cause of the blight.

Ezra’s Faith in Sera
Location: Great Hall
Ezra shows unwavering faith in Sera’s explanation, trusting that her stepsister would not lie about such a serious matter. This faith, however, surprises Nyktos, who questions Ezra’s quick acceptance. Ezra counters that Sera’s commitment to Lasania has never wavered, and she knows Sera would never mislead her about something so important. The conversation turns to the reforms Ezra has made, including a food bank and diplomatic efforts with Terra to strengthen Lasania’s alliances. Ezra is resourceful and practical in her leadership, something Sera admires.

Parting Words and Ezra’s Hope
Location: Great Hall
Before Sera and Nyktos depart, Ezra expresses hope despite the grim situation with the Rot. She also reveals that she has already begun to prepare by using the lands tainted by the Rot to build homes for the poor. This was an idea inspired by Sera’s earlier suggestion, and it gives Sera a sense of fulfillment and hope for Lasania. Ezra also expresses her desire to see Sera again, and they part on emotional yet hopeful terms.

Confrontation with Sera’s Mother
Location: Castle Hall
As they prepare to leave, Sera comes face-to-face with her mother. The encounter is tense, and Sera’s mother tries to explain that she didn’t know Tavius, Sera’s stepbrother, would harm her. Nyktos, however, interrupts, seething with anger. He condemns Sera’s mother for failing to protect her daughter and makes it clear that the only reason she is alive is because of Sera’s mercy, not his. The tension culminates in Nyktos’s chilling rebuke, leaving Sera’s mother trembling and humbled.
 
This chapter highlights the changes in Lasania under Ezra’s rule and explores deeper dynamics between Sera, Nyktos, and her family. 
 

 

Chapter 23 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Training and Reflection
Location: Nyktos’s Chambers
After returning from their trip to the mortal realm, Sera spends her afternoon training with Bele, leaving her physically exhausted. Later, she and Nyktos share an intimate moment, and for the first time, Sera realizes the pleasure she feels from Nyktos’s satisfaction. She notes how different her emotions are with Nyktos compared to past lovers, recognizing how much she cares about his happiness. They both enjoy the aftermath of their shared intimacy, and Sera reflects on their visit to Lasania, feeling relief that Ezra is handling things well. Nyktos’s understanding and support warm Sera, as he recognizes that the trip was as much about her seeing Ezra as it was about ensuring Lasania’s safety.

Sera’s Confusion About Her Mother
Location: Nyktos’s Chambers
As Nyktos gently touches her, Sera’s thoughts drift to her mother, and she shares her concerns with him. She is troubled by the idea that she might be more like her mother than she wants to admit. Nyktos reassures her, saying that just because someone shares your blood doesn’t mean they deserve your thoughts or time. He speaks from experience, understanding her feelings about family. He distracts Sera from her concerns by turning their focus back to each other, and they share more intimate moments that chase away her lingering worries.

Exploring the Shadowstone Dungeons
Location: Shadowstone Dungeons
The next morning, Sera is summoned to Nyktos’s office, where he leads her down a mysterious stairwell into the palace’s underground dungeons. As they descend, Sera is curious about what lies below, especially when she sees the eerie cells made of bones from gods and the children of gods. These bones are reinforced with primal wards, making them difficult to break. Nyktos explains that these cells are designed to hold gods and other powerful beings, except for creatures of dual life like the draken, who are immune to the wards’ effects.

Nyktos’s Hidden Sanctuary
Location: Underground Pool
At the end of the dungeon, Nyktos reveals a secret, peaceful chamber: an underground pool that he and several others—including Rhain, Ector, Saion, and Nektas—created by hand over the years. The pool is designed to resemble a lake, with mineral-rich water kept clean and cool by underground mills. This sanctuary is a place where Nyktos finds peace, especially when sleep eludes him or when he needs quiet time to reflect. He created the pool as a personal space, and Sera recognizes how special it is to him. When she asks why he visited her lake if he had this one, Nyktos quietly responds that he went to her lake because it was hers.
 
This chapter shows the growing emotional connection between Sera and Nyktos, as they share deeper personal moments and Nyktos reveals a private part of his world to Sera.

Chapter 24 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Nyktos’s Confession
Location: Underground Pool
Nyktos surprises Sera when he reveals that he had been visiting her lake long before she saw him there. He explains that after learning about the embers of life from his father, he felt drawn to her and her lake, though he never stayed long during his visits. Sera teases him about watching her from afar, acknowledging that it would’ve been creepy if he had approached her when she was younger. She also realizes that the underground pool Nyktos created serves as a sanctuary for him, similar to how her lake was a refuge for her. This shared understanding deepens their bond.

Training to Control Eather
Location: Underground Pool
Nyktos brought Sera to the pool not just to share the space with her, but also to train her to control her eather. He believes that strong emotions—anger, frustration, grief—are currently tied to her ability to summon the embers. They begin sparring, with Nyktos using his shadowstepping abilities to evade Sera’s attacks. He goads her, trying to make her frustrated enough to manifest the eather. Sera grows increasingly annoyed as Nyktos continues to dodge her, taunting her with his speed and skill. Despite her efforts, she struggles to summon the embers during their fight.

A Shift in Tactics
Location: Underground Pool
As their training intensifies, Nyktos continues to push Sera, but their sparring takes a more intimate turn. Nyktos teases and flirts with her, shifting the dynamic from combat to seduction. Sera, embracing the playful tension, distracts Nyktos by whispering suggestive remarks, which leads to an intense, sensual moment between them. Nyktos pins Sera to the stone table, and she realizes that being dominated by him doesn’t make her feel powerless—it makes her feel safe and desired. This shift in their relationship shows how much she trusts him, and for the first time, she fully submits to him, both physically and emotionally.

The Bond Between Them
Location: Underground Pool
In the heat of their intimacy, Sera speaks openly about her desires, and Nyktos responds with equal intensity. As their connection deepens, Nyktos reassures her that she is always safe with him, calling her “liessa” (queen). This moment solidifies their bond, both as lovers and as partners who understand and respect each other’s strength and vulnerabilities.
 
This chapter explores the evolving relationship between Sera and Nyktos, blending their physical connection with deeper emotional trust.

Chapter 25 Recap - A Light in the Flame

A Moment of Peace and Reflection
Location: Nyktos's Pool
After the intense and playful sparring in the previous chapter, Nyktos and Sera share a peaceful moment in the pool. The water is warmer than her lake, and Sera feels relaxed, especially after Nyktos joins her. She confides in him about her habit of holding her breath underwater—a way of feeling in control, something she's done since she was a child. Nyktos reassures her, sharing a story about Lathan, who experienced anxiety attacks, showing that even gods struggle with mental challenges. This moment deepens their connection, as Nyktos comforts her by acknowledging her strength beyond her embers.

Playfulness in the Pool
Location: Nyktos's Pool
Their playful banter continues as Nyktos impresses Sera by manipulating water into cyclones and animal shapes, reminding her that despite being a Primal of Death, he can still engage in moments of levity. Sera is awed and fascinated by his power and their growing bond. Their time in the pool feels special, and Sera begins to recognize the intangible shift in their relationship, sensing that they’re becoming something more to each other.

The Young Draken and Aios
Location: Nyktos's Palace
Sera spends the rest of the day with the young draken, Jadis, and Aios. Jadis shifts between her draken and mortal form, clearly feeling safe around Sera. The ease with which the young draken falls asleep in her arms indicates the bond they've formed. Reaver and Aios join them, adding moments of light-heartedness as they talk about Jadis and Nektas’s possible romantic interest in Aurelia, a draken from Attes’s Court.

Realization of Feelings
Location: Nyktos's Palace
As Sera holds Jadis, she reflects deeply on her growing feelings for Nyktos. She realizes that she wants more from him—not just as a temporary Consort but as his Queen, his partner, and his wife. This internal revelation is both exhilarating and terrifying for Sera, as she grapples with the possibility of a real future with Nyktos. She recognizes that Nyktos has already proven his care for her in countless ways, and she now understands that she wants to be with him.

Nektas's Eyes and the Culling
Location: Nyktos's Palace
After waking up from a nap with Jadis, Sera notices that Nektas’s eyes briefly turn a bright blue, a color she’s never seen in draken before. Nektas quickly leaves, and Nyktos explains that the draken’s eyes used to be blue when they were bonded to the true Primal of Life, but they changed to red after Kolis took the embers from Nyktos’s father. The fact that Nektas’s eyes momentarily turned blue could mean that Sera’s embers are growing stronger, and this might indicate that she is closer to Ascension than anyone realized.
 
This chapter blends playful intimacy with deeper emotional realizations as Sera comes to terms with her growing attachment to Nyktos and the looming consequences of her increasing power.

Chapter 26 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Closer to Ascension, Closer to Danger
Location: Nyktos's Palace and on the road to the Vale
Sera reflects on the urgency of removing the embers from her body. Her Ascension is approaching, and with the embers still inside her, it brings her closer to death. Nyktos's blood alone can't save her; it requires his love, which is impossible since he removed his kardia. Determined, Sera knows today's journey is crucial for getting the embers out of her.

Moments of Intimacy
As Nyktos and Sera prepare to leave the palace for the Vale, their growing attraction continues to simmer. Nyktos pulls her aside, kissing her passionately, unable to resist her desire, which she unknowingly projects. After a playful but heated exchange, they remind themselves of their mission, although their bond deepens with every touch and shared moment.

Gala, a Gift for Sera
Nyktos surprises Sera with a beautiful mare named Gala, which he planned to give her for their coronation. Sera is touched by the thoughtful gift, especially as she reveals that she's never owned a horse before. Nyktos continues to show his care for her, both in small gestures and through his protective actions as they prepare to leave.

Nyktos's War Against Kolis
As they travel toward the Vale, Nyktos opens up about his long-standing goal to destroy Kolis. He explains that war between Primals could spill into the mortal realm, causing mass destruction. For years, he saw war as inevitable—until he learned of the embers inside Sera. She represents the only hope of defeating Kolis without a devastating war. However, the plan is not without risks, and Nyktos admits there are no guarantees. Sera starts to realize the weight of her role and the uncertainty of what lies ahead.

The Symbolic Poppy
Nyktos takes Sera off the road to show her a vine with a single poppy blooming in the dead land—a sign of hope and life. He explains that the flower symbolizes the power of the embers and how life persists even in death. It is a quiet but profound moment between them, reinforcing their connection and the stakes of their mission.

The Vale and the Souls of the Dead
As they approach the Vale, Sera feels the embers reacting to the souls drifting in the mist around them. Nektas explains that this area, close to the Pillars, is where the dead wait to pass through, and it deeply affected Nyktos’s father, Eythos. Sera is struck by the loneliness of the souls in the mist and how the embers respond to them. Despite her growing power, she is hesitant to use the embers, knowing they will soon belong to Nyktos. Nektas and Nyktos remind her that she is stronger than she realizes, not just because of the embers but because of her own will.

The Three Riders of the End
As they near the Pillars, Sera is introduced to three eerie riders—Polemus, Peinea, and Loimus—embodiments of war, pestilence, and hunger. They symbolize the end of wherever they travel, but fortunately, they can only be summoned by the true Primal of Life. Their presence is unsettling, but Nyktos remains calm, finding humor in the situation.

A Declaration of Desire
In an impulsive moment, Sera blurts out that she wants to be Nyktos's Consort, surprising both of them. Time seems to freeze as Nyktos processes her words. He responds with a gentle, affectionate gesture, kissing her hand and palm before telling her he will be waiting for her, addressing her as "liessa." The emotional weight of the moment is undeniable, signaling that their relationship is shifting into something deeper.
 
This chapter highlights the emotional and physical intimacy growing between Sera and Nyktos, as well as the looming dangers tied to her Ascension and the fate of the realms.

Chapter 27 Recap - A Light in the Flame

A Journey into the Vale
Location: The Vale
Sera and Nektas enter the Vale, a realm of lush, vibrant beauty where the landscape is filled with trees that bear purple and pink blossoms. The roads shimmer with crushed diamonds, created from the joyous tears of ancient gods. As they travel, Sera marvels at the beauty of the place but is also cautious, aware of the deeper purpose of their journey.

Conversations of Love and Fear
As they ride, Nektas teases Sera about her feelings for Nyktos. Sera admits to herself that she cares deeply for Nyktos, even if she is not ready to call it love. Nektas, ever insightful, reminds her that Nyktos cares for her, and the conversation shifts to the complexities of Nyktos's fears. Nektas reveals that Nyktos had his kardia removed because he fears becoming like his uncle, Kolis, who was twisted by love and loss. This conversation highlights the emotional tension between Sera’s deepening feelings for Nyktos and the fear both of them harbor about love.

The Siren's Song
As they travel deeper into the Vale, Sera hears the hauntingly beautiful song of the sirens. These sirens guard the Vale and lure trespassers into the deadly mist, the Shroud. Sera becomes entranced by the melody and unknowingly edges closer to danger. Nektas quickly pulls her back, explaining that only draken or those who’ve Ascended can safely enter the Vale. The experience is chilling, especially as Sera struggles to resist the lure of the sirens.

The Pools of Divanash
Nektas leads Sera to the Pools of Divanash, hidden beneath a massive shadowstone mountain. After a claustrophobic journey through narrow passages, they emerge in a cavern filled with lilacs, a symbol of life and renewal. The Pools are a source of ancient magic, capable of revealing truths, but they require an offering of blood and a deeply personal confession in return for their answers.

Sera's Secret Confession
To activate the Pools, Sera must reveal a truth unknown to others. She confesses that the time she overdosed on a sleeping draft was not an accident. She had, in fact, wanted to end her life at that moment. Her admission is raw and painful, but the Pools accept her offering, roiling and bubbling in response.

The Vision of Delfai
Sera asks the Pools to show her the God of Divination, Delfai. The waters reveal an image of a sweeping manor in Irelone, confirming his location. As the vision sharpens, Sera sees Delfai himself, alive and well, speaking to a woman Sera recognizes—Kayleigh Balfour, the Princess of Irelone. Delfai is at Cauldra Manor, working with the princess, which may lead them to the next step in their journey.
 
This chapter highlights the deepening emotional complexity between Sera and Nyktos, as well as the dangers and mysteries of the Vale. It also reveals a significant piece of information about Delfai, moving the plot forward.

Chapter 28 Recap - A Light in the Flame

The Revelation of Delfai
Location: The Vale
Sera and Nektas ride back through the Vale, reflecting on the vision they saw in the Pools of Divanash. Delfai, the God of Divination, is with Princess Kayleigh of Irelone, someone Sera knew from her past. They discuss how fate might be guiding their paths and how Delfai could be expecting them. Nektas explains that while fate presents possibilities, it doesn't negate free will—choices still matter.

Sera recalls helping Kayleigh escape a marriage with her stepbrother, Tavius, by faking an illness. This memory brings the two to a conversation about how all decisions, big or small, create chain reactions in life. Nektas reminds Sera that fate isn't absolute, which brings her some relief.

Confronting Emotional Vulnerabilities
As they leave the Vale and face the singing sirens again, Nektas shows his concern for Sera, especially after her earlier confession at the Pools. He gently reassures her that she doesn't have to be "okay" all the time and offers his support, which deeply touches Sera. She struggles with the unexpected kindness, torn between wanting to run away from the moment and feeling comforted by it.

A Battle with the Nymphs
As they near the Rise, Nektas senses danger approaching—nymphs corrupted by Kolis’s theft of Eythos’s embers. Once gentle creatures, they’ve become malevolent and now seek to inflict pain. Sera and Nektas prepare for battle as the twisted nymphs emerge from their hiding places. Despite their grotesque appearances and nonsensical, rhyming speech, Sera and Nektas fight them off, cutting through the horde as they try to protect themselves and their horses.
In the heat of battle, Sera’s powers flare unexpectedly. The embers inside her respond to her fury as she tries to protect Gala, her horse. Silver-white eather flows from her hand, engulfing a nymph and obliterating it with a surge of power. This surprises both Sera and Nektas, as such a power—capable of killing a Primal—should only be wielded by the true Primal of Life. This realization leaves Sera uneasy as they finish their journey back.

A Shocking Discovery
Returning to the palace, Sera heads to Nyktos’s office, feeling a strong connection to him through the embers in her chest. She expects to find him there, but what she walks into is shocking—Nyktos seated with Veses, the Primal of Rites and Prosperity, in his lap. Veses is straddling him, moving against him, and feeding from his throat. Sera is stunned into silence, unable to process what she is seeing.
 
This chapter explores the deeper connections between Sera and Nyktos, while the surprising ending sets the stage for conflict and potential misunderstandings in their relationship.

Chapter 29 Recap - A Light in the Flame

A Heart-Shattering Discovery
Location : Nyktos’s Office:
Sera walks in on Nyktos and Veses, the Primal of Rites and Prosperity, in a deeply intimate moment. Veses is straddling Nyktos, feeding from his throat, and her body is pressed against his. The sight paralyzes Sera, causing her world to come crashing down. She feels a tidal wave of emotions—shock, betrayal, and intense hurt—as she struggles to process what she’s witnessing. Veses mocks Sera with a smile, and Nyktos seems sluggish and unaware at first, intensifying Sera’s heartache.

Running from the Pain
Location : The Stairwell and Hallways
Overwhelmed by the betrayal, Sera flees the scene. Veses’s mocking laughter echoes in her ears as she runs blindly through the palace, desperate to escape the pain. Memories of Nyktos’s words of affection and trust replay in her mind, contrasting painfully with the reality she just witnessed. She tries to make sense of it but finds herself consumed by grief and disappointment.

Unleashing Power Beyond Control
Sera retreats to the chamber with Nyktos’s pool, a place she once found comfort and safety. As her emotions spiral out of control, she feels rage and anguish boiling inside her. The embers in her chest stir violently, and in a moment of pure emotional release, she unleashes her power. The stone table shatters, and the room begins to tremble under the force of her fury. Cracks form in the walls and floor, and eerie, ashy roots sprout from the ground, wrapping around her arms and legs. Sera’s emotions are so intense that she can’t control her own power, and the entire palace begins to shake as if it’s on the verge of collapse.

Nyktos's Desperate Intervention
Just as Sera’s power threatens to destroy everything, Nyktos arrives. He pulls her back against his chest, urging her to calm down and control her breathing. He guides her through a technique to slow her breath, but the roots keep tightening around them. Despite Nyktos’s efforts, Sera’s power continues to surge, and the cracks in the palace deepen.
Rhain appears, warning that Sera’s unchecked power could bring down the palace. Realizing that Sera is beyond calming down on her own, Nyktos makes a desperate decision. Apologizing to her, he speaks a single word: "Sleep." The word carries his Primal power, and it instantly overwhelms Sera, taking control and forcing her to sleep.
 
This chapter is an emotional whirlwind for Sera, as she confronts her deepest fears of betrayal and vulnerability, and struggles with the uncontrollable power that threatens to consume her. Nyktos's intervention, though necessary, adds another layer of complexity to their relationship as he forcibly calms her through his Primal abilities.
 

Chapter 30 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Sera’s Dream of the Lake
Location: Sera's dream, Lake in Lasania
Sera dreams of swimming in the lake near her childhood home in Lasania, a place she associates with calm and peace. In her dream, she notices a white wolf watching her from the shore. This is unusual because she never learned how to swim, and the sense of calm contrasts sharply with the events happening in her waking life.

Awakening and Confusion
Location: Nyktos’s Bedchamber, House of Haides
Sera wakes up in Nyktos’s bed, disoriented and confused. Rhain and Bele are there to explain that she had been asleep for three days after expending too much energy, nearly triggering her Ascension. The stasis she entered saved her life, and they explain the side effects of her exhaustion during the Culling. Sera feels a mixture of frustration and vulnerability, especially regarding Nyktos’s decision to use compulsion to calm her during her outburst.

Reflection on Control and Nyktos
Location: Sera's Bathing Chamber, House of Haides
Sera takes a bath to recover physically and emotionally, reflecting on the situation with Nyktos. The memory of seeing him with Veses continues to haunt her, filling her with anger and pain. She tries to suppress her emotions, acknowledging that she cannot allow herself to feel anything more for Nyktos beyond their arrangement. Sera resolves to focus on the tasks ahead—surviving the Culling, finding Delfai, and defeating Kolis. She also acknowledges her growing powers and the need to control them to avoid further dangerous outbursts.

Resolve for the Future
Location: Sera’s Bedchamber, House of Haides
Sera's conversation with Bele and Rhain confirms that Nyktos had been worried about her the entire time she was unconscious. However, Sera decides that she cannot let herself become emotionally entangled with Nyktos. She acknowledges that while he might care for her, she cannot let herself fall deeper, especially after witnessing his interaction with Veses. Her primary focus remains on survival and securing her freedom after Kolis is dealt with.

Chapter 31 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Bele’s Revelation
Location: Sera’s Bedchamber, House of Haides
Bele reveals to Sera that she had seen Veses visiting Nyktos, explaining that she didn’t expect such visits now that Nyktos had a Consort. Sera reflects on the relationship between Veses and Nyktos, realizing that their encounters may have been going on for a year. Bele admits that while she doesn’t understand why Nyktos allows Veses to feed from him, there must be a reason. Sera is left struggling with her emotions, attempting to mask her hurt and confusion with a veneer of indifference.

Nyktos’s Apology
Location: Sera’s Bedchamber, House of Haides
Nyktos enters the room and apologizes to Sera, first for using compulsion on her and then for the situation with Veses. Sera expresses her anger and disbelief, insisting that she knows what she saw—Veses feeding from Nyktos. Nyktos admits that it wasn’t the first time, but insists that what Sera saw wasn’t what she thought. The tension between them grows as Sera grapples with her feelings of betrayal and hurt, while Nyktos tries to explain the situation, claiming it’s more complicated than it appears.

The End of the Deal
Location: Sera’s Bedchamber, House of Haides
Sera declares that their original deal—pleasure for the sake of pleasure—is over. She tells Nyktos that once the embers are removed and Kolis is defeated, she wants her freedom. Nyktos agrees to her request, but the weight of his agreement feels like an unbreakable bond. The tension between them is palpable as they both try to navigate their complex emotions, leaving Sera more resolved than ever to gain her freedom, no matter the cost.

Chapter 32 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Sera’s Emotional Walls
Location: Hallways and Office, House of Haides
Sera, still reeling from the events of the previous night, struggles to maintain her emotional walls. She meets with Nyktos to discuss traveling to Irelone to find Delfai. The conversation is filled with tension as Nyktos insists on traveling with her to ensure the embers are removed safely. Despite their strained relationship, Sera remains polite and detached, something that Nyktos quickly picks up on, calling out the change in her behavior. He tries to convince her that she doesn’t need to suppress her emotions, but Sera is determined to remain empty, unwilling to feel the hurt again.

Kolis’s Summons
Location: Nyktos’s Office, House of Haides
While they discuss their travel plans, Nyktos receives a sudden and unwelcome summons from Kolis, marked by a painful slash on his hand. The urgency of the summons complicates their plans, as Kolis’s wrath is not something they can delay. Nyktos gathers his closest guards, including Nektas, Aios, and Reaver, to discuss the situation. Sera insists that they answer the summons immediately to avoid any repercussions from Kolis, though she remains wary of what awaits them.

Aios’s Warning
Location: Sera’s Bedchambers, House of Haides
Aios helps Sera prepare for their journey to Dalos, selecting an appropriate gown to appease Kolis’s sense of decorum. As they talk, Aios shares a chilling account of her own time as one of Kolis’s “favorites.” She describes the horrors of being kept in a gilded cage, the manipulation, and the cruel games Kolis played with his favorites. Despite the elegant facade, Kolis’s court was lawless, filled with unspeakable acts of violence. Aios’s warning is clear: Kolis is incapable of love, and Sera, no matter her connection to Sotoria, would not be safe in his presence. This leaves Sera more determined than ever to face her fate head-on.

Chapter 33 Recap - A Light in the Flame

The Weight of Aios’s Story
Location: Sera’s Chambers, House of Haides
After Aios departs, Sera is left to contemplate the horrors Aios endured in Kolis’s court. The weight of her words lingers, making Sera realize the true depths of Kolis’s cruelty. This, combined with the knowledge that Sera might be his graeca, forces her to confront the terrifying possibility that she could be his weakness. Despite her efforts to suppress her emotions, the weight of this revelation hangs heavy on her mind.

The Conversation with Nyktos
Location: Sera’s Chambers, House of Haides
Nyktos arrives, and tension fills the room. He compliments Sera’s appearance, but their words soon turn serious as they discuss their upcoming journey to Dalos. Nyktos warns her that they must pretend to be close in front of Kolis, just as they did with Attes. Sera, still struggling with her feelings, acknowledges that it’s not the pretense she finds difficult—it’s the reality of her feelings for Nyktos that complicates everything. He admits that what they shared was never an act, but he also knows he can’t give her what she truly deserves: love. This confession leaves Sera grappling with a mix of emotions as they prepare to face Kolis.

Nyktos’s Determination
Location: Sera’s Chambers, House of Haides
When Sera expresses fear that Kolis might recognize her as Sotoria, Nyktos doesn’t hesitate. He assures her that if Kolis tries to claim her, there will be war, and he will not allow Kolis to take her. Sera is left both reassured and terrified by his resolve. She doesn’t want to be the cause of bloodshed, and she begs Nyktos not to intervene if Kolis recognizes her. Nyktos, however, cannot promise that. He knows what Kolis would do to her and refuses to stand by and let it happen, revealing that if he did, it would destroy what little goodness remained within him.

Farewell from Jadis
Location: House of Haides
As they prepare to leave, Nektas arrives with Jadis to say goodbye. The little draken, still half-asleep, gives Sera a sweet, wet kiss on the forehead. The tender moment stirs something deep within Sera, but she quickly suppresses it. Nyktos’s reaction to Jadis also reveals a softer side of him that Sera hadn’t expected to see, further complicating her emotions. Nektas offers a word of hope, suggesting that perhaps Kolis won’t recognize her after all, but the tension of what’s to come remains heavy.

The City of the Gods
Location: Dalos, City of the Gods
Nyktos shadowsteps them to Dalos, the City of the Gods. As they approach the city, Sera is struck by its beauty from afar, with its glittering walls and shining trees of Aios. However, the beauty quickly fades as they draw closer. The city is eerily quiet, and the unease only grows as they approach Cor Palace, Kolis’s stronghold. Nyktos warns Sera not to trust anyone, and she steels herself for what lies ahead.

The Horror of Cor
Location: Cor Palace, Dalos
Upon entering the courtyard of Cor Palace, Sera is met with a sight that shakes her to her core: bodies strung up, moaning in pain, some barely alive, others already dead. The air is thick with the scent of death, and the embers in Sera’s chest react violently to the presence of the dying. Overwhelmed by the horror and unable to control the power of the embers, Sera finds herself losing control, her power rising in response to the suffering around her.

Chapter 34 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Nyktos Stops Sera
Location: Courtyard, Cor Palace, Dalos
In the midst of the horrifying courtyard filled with death and dying, Sera’s control over the embers begins to slip. Nyktos, sensing her panic, intervenes in an unexpected way—by kissing her. The kiss is more than just a distraction. It’s powerful enough to calm the embers, forcing them to retreat. As the kiss deepens, Sera momentarily forgets the horrors around them, focusing solely on Nyktos. When the embers calm, the heat between them changes from the panic of losing control to something far more intimate.

A Tense Encounter with Attes
Location: Courtyard, Cor Palace, Dalos
Their moment is interrupted by Attes and another god, Dyses, who inform Nyktos that Kolis is holding court and isn’t ready to receive them. Dyses refers to Sera as Nyktos’s “mistress,” an insult that doesn’t go unnoticed by Nyktos. When Dyses demands that Sera bow, Nyktos steps in, not only forbidding it but reacting violently. Without warning, Nyktos kills Dyses in a brutal display of power, leaving Attes to comment on whether Kolis would be amused or annoyed by the act. Despite the violence, Nyktos remains focused on protecting Sera.

The Soulless God
Location: Courtyard, Cor Palace, Dalos
After Dyses’s death, Nyktos and Attes share a disturbing realization: Dyses seemed to have no soul. The unsettling discovery adds a layer of mystery to the already grim surroundings. Attes, however, is intrigued rather than alarmed, and they quickly move on, leaving the soulless body behind as they head toward the atrium. Sera, still shaken by what she’s seen, is further unnerved by the strange sensation that something is deeply wrong with the gods who serve Kolis.

A Conversation with Attes
Location: Corridors, Cor Palace, Dalos
As they walk through the corridors toward the atrium, Attes hints at more troubling truths about Kolis’s rule. He also continues to make suggestive comments toward Sera, further aggravating Nyktos. Attes warns Sera to be careful with her sharp tongue in the Court of Kolis, as not everyone will appreciate her wit. Despite the tension between Nyktos and Attes, there’s an undercurrent of understanding—Attes may be more of an ally than an enemy.

Entering the Atrium
Location: Atrium, Cor Palace, Dalos
The atrium is a gaudy, decadent space filled with symbols of Kolis’s power. As they enter, Nyktos and Sera take their seats, maintaining the appearance of closeness for the benefit of the onlookers. Attes excuses himself to find his brother, leaving Sera and Nyktos to prepare for the upcoming meeting with Kolis. Their conversation turns to the troubling presence of other gods, including Davon, a relative of Nektas who now serves Kolis.

The Arrival of Hanan
Location: Atrium, Cor Palace, Dalos
Hanan, the Primal of the Hunt and Divine Justice, arrives and immediately sets a hostile tone. He engages in a tense verbal sparring match with Nyktos, accusing him of hiding Bele, a god from Hanan’s court who Ascended in Nyktos’s territory. Nyktos deftly deflects the accusations, but it’s clear that Hanan is not easily convinced. The conversation becomes increasingly dangerous, with Hanan making thinly veiled threats toward Sera, prompting Nyktos to respond with his own deadly warnings.

Kolis Arrives
Location: Atrium, Cor Palace, Dalos
Just as the tension reaches a boiling point, Kolis, the true Primal of Death, makes his entrance. The room falls silent as the false King steps into the atrium, bringing with him an aura of danger and power. With Kolis’s arrival, the stakes are higher than ever, and Sera and Nyktos must be prepared for whatever comes next.
 

Chapter 35 Recap - A Light in the Flame

The Arrival of Kolis
Location: Atrium, Cor Palace, Dalos
Kolis enters the atrium with a suffocating presence, filling the room with his overwhelming power. The atmosphere changes, filled with golden-laced eather that radiates an unnatural light. Sera and Nyktos, along with the others present, feel the immense weight of Kolis’s authority. Nyktos guides Sera to kneel, and though it feels wrong, Sera obeys. She pushes aside her fear and anger, adopting a blank, emotionless state as she faces the being who has controlled so many lives, including hers.

A Close Encounter
Location: Atrium, Cor Palace, Dalos
Kolis commands Sera to rise, and as she does, she feels his gaze on her. The tension in the room builds when Kolis expresses his desire to see Sera more clearly. Sensing the storm brewing within Nyktos, Sera steps forward, revealing herself fully. Kolis shadowsteps in front of her, and his mere presence feels like an intrusion. Though similar in appearance to Nyktos, Kolis's beauty is warm, beguiling, and deceptive—a facade that lures one in. Kolis compels Sera to lift her eyes to meet his, a display of power meant to remind everyone who he truly is.

The False King's Interest
Location: Atrium, Cor Palace, Dalos
Kolis takes a keen interest in Sera, commenting on her name and her appearance. He questions her godly heritage, sensing too much eather for her to be a mere godling. Nyktos steps in, explaining that Sera carries his blood, a clever deflection. Tension rises further when Kolis reaches out to touch Sera’s hair, but Nyktos intervenes, gripping Kolis's wrist and declaring that Sera belongs to him and is not to be touched by anyone else. The moment passes, but the threat lingers as Kolis appears amused, rather than angered, by Nyktos’s possessiveness.

Kolis's Demand for a Life
Location: Atrium, Cor Palace, Dalos
Kolis shifts the conversation, addressing Nyktos’s failure to seek his approval for taking Sera as his Consort. Despite Nyktos’s attempts to deflect, Kolis demands that a life be taken as a form of payment for this disrespect. Guards bring forward a young draken, a fair-haired boy with crimson eyes, barely more than a child. The horror of the situation unfolds as Kolis demands that Sera be the one to take the draken’s life.
Sera, horrified, realizes there is no way out. If she refuses, both the draken and others will die. The draken, resigned to his fate, urges her to act quickly, and Sera, fighting back tears, prepares to pay the price Kolis demands.

Sotoria Awakens
Location: Atrium, Cor Palace, Dalos
As Sera stands ready to fulfill Kolis’s demand, she experiences a profound shift. A primal, ancient force stirs within her, fueled by the embers of life. Rage and vengeance surge through her as she grips the dagger, and for a moment, it is not just Sera standing there. It is Sotoria, the soul intertwined with hers, who takes control. With this power coursing through her, Sera meets Kolis’s gaze with a knowing smile and prepares to do what must be done.
 
This chapter is packed with tension, from Kolis's menacing presence to the impossible choice Sera faces.

Chapter 36 Recap - A Light in the Flame

The Aftermath of Kolis’s Court
Location: Leaving Cor Palace, Dalos
Sera walks out of the atrium in a daze, having accomplished her mission but leaving a piece of herself behind. Kolis didn’t recognize her as Sotoria, and they confirmed that Kolis had discovered how to create life. Yet, the draken’s death weighs heavily on her. Sera requests Nyktos to take her to Attes and Kyn's Court in Vathi, hoping she can bring the young draken back to life. Despite Nyktos's reluctance, they travel to Vathi.

Arrival in Vathi and the Plea to Attes
Location: Attes and Kyn's Court, Vathi
Upon arriving in Vathi, Sera is overwhelmed by the beauty of the land, but she immediately urges Attes to stop Kyn from burning the draken’s body. Attes is confused but obeys Nyktos’s command, quickly retrieving the draken’s body. Sera is determined to undo what Kolis forced her to do.

Bringing the Draken Back
Location: Attes’s Private Chambers, Vathi
Sera channels the embers of life to bring the draken back, filling the room with glowing eather. The draken's veins illuminate with life, and after a tense moment, the young draken named Thad takes a breath and returns to life. Sera is relieved, but the moment is bittersweet. Nyktos warns that Kolis may have felt the use of her power, and they must hide Thad to protect him.

Attes’s Loyalty
Location: Attes’s Private Chambers, Vathi
Attes, shaken by what he witnessed, swears to keep the events in Vathi a secret. He acknowledges Sera as meyaah Liessa (Queen), though she denies the title. Attes admits that he had his suspicions about Sera’s true nature from the beginning, but chose not to report them to Kolis. His loyalty to Nyktos is based on the respect he holds for Nyktos’s father and the man Nyktos was meant to be.

The Return to the Shadowlands
Location: Nyktos’s Private Quarters, Shadowlands
Back in the Shadowlands, Sera and Nyktos reflect on the events. Nyktos believes Attes will keep quiet long enough for them to proceed with the coronation. Sera admits that while she fixed the injustice of the draken’s death, she still feels guilt. Nyktos, burdened by his own marks of guilt, tells Sera she didn’t need to take that burden upon herself, but Sera insists that she did it for him—not because she had to, but because she wanted to protect him.

The Revelation of Sotoria’s Soul
Location: Nyktos’s Private Quarters, Shadowlands
As the conversation deepens, Nyktos reveals that he felt a foreign rage during their encounter with Kolis—a rage that didn’t belong to Sera. Sera admits that she felt it too, the presence of Sotoria’s soul within her. Nyktos now believes that Sera has two souls—her own and Sotoria’s, bound together in one body.

This chapter focuses on the consequences of Sera's actions and the deepening realization that Sotoria's soul is still very much a part of her. 

Chapter 37 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Sera’s Inner Conflict
Location: Shadowlands, House of Haides
Sera reflects on the idea that she might have two souls inside her. While Nyktos can't confirm it until she dies, the thought feels more accurate than believing she is simply Sotoria reincarnated. Nyktos meets with the others to discuss the events in Dalos, but Sera feels the weight of the draken’s death and her decision to bring him back. Despite fixing the situation, Sera is burdened by guilt, questioning if she should have taken the draken’s choice from him, just as Kolis had forced her hand. She seeks solitude but finds comfort in Reaver’s silent companionship.

Sorrow and Tears of Blood
Location: Shadowlands, Near the Palace Rise
Sera sits alone, feeling overwhelmed by sorrow and guilt. Reaver joins her, laying his head in her lap as she silently cries, shedding tears of blood—a sign of deep sorrow in Primals, according to legends. Her emotions spiral, but eventually, she returns to the palace.

Dinner with Bele and Aios
Location: House of Haides, Palace
That evening, Sera shares dinner with Bele, Aios, and Reaver. The normalcy of the conversation is a welcome distraction, though she still senses the lingering tension between Bele and Aios. Afterward, Ector escorts Sera to her chambers, mentioning that Nyktos and Orphine are in Lethe, dealing with Shades who have gathered too close to the city.

Veses Arrives
Location: Sera’s Chambers, House of Haides
Sera prepares for bed, sensing a strange hum in her chest. Before she can process it, Veses, the Primal of Rites and Prosperity, forces her way into Sera’s chambers, throwing Ector across the room with her power. Sera realizes Veses’s appearance is not a coincidence; she likely took advantage of Nyktos being away in Lethe.

A Tense Confrontation
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Veses enters Sera’s chambers, mocking her for being Nyktos’s Consort in title only. The confrontation escalates as Veses reveals that she sent the draken and gods to the mortal realm to retrieve Sera, hoping to stop Nyktos from making a poor decision. Veses admits she’s aware that something is different about Sera, suspecting she might be a Primal going through the Culling and, even more impossibly, that she possesses the embers of life.

A Violent Fight
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Enraged by Veses’s arrogance and cruelty, Sera stabs the Primal in the eye with a dagger. However, Veses quickly heals and retaliates with her eather, throwing Sera across the room. The fight intensifies, with Veses revealing she felt life emanating from Sera when she arrived from Vathi, confirming Sera’s growing power. Despite Sera’s attempts to fight back, Veses’s strength overwhelms her.

Bele’s Arrival
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Just as Veses prepares to attack again, the chamber doors burst open, and Bele enters, setting the stage for what could be a game-changing confrontation.
 
This chapter focuses on Sera’s internal struggle with guilt, her growing power, and the explosive conflict with Veses.

Chapter 38 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Veses vs. Bele
Location: Sera’s Chambers, House of Haides
Bele arrives just in time to confront Veses, who is still reeling from the dagger Sera drove into her eye. Veses mocks Bele, threatening that Kolis will rip out her heart, but Bele stays calm, taunting Veses instead. Meanwhile, Sera struggles with pain but manages to crawl over to check on Reaver, who remains in his unconscious mortal form. Veses dismisses Reaver’s injuries as unimportant, further enraging Sera.

Sera Heals Reaver
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Determined to save Reaver, Sera uses the embers of life to heal him, risking revealing her power to Veses. The process is intense, and Sera channels the ancient energy through her body, restoring Reaver. However, Veses realizes the truth—that Sera is a Primal in her Culling—and reacts with horror, understanding the immense power Sera holds.

Nyktos’ Arrival
Location: Sera’s Chambers
The tension between Bele and Veses escalates as they engage in combat. Just as the situation spirals, Nyktos arrives, his fury palpable. His power is overwhelming, filling the chamber with swirling shadows and freezing the air. Veses, realizing she’s lost, tries to explain, but Nyktos shuts her down with a blast of eather that leaves her incapacitated. Orphine and Ehthawn arrive to take Veses away.

Sera and Nyktos
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Nyktos tends to Sera, who is badly injured. She tells him about Veses’s fear after realizing what Sera could do, and how Veses had come because she sensed something different about Sera. Nyktos assures her that Veses won’t be able to escape and reveal the secret to Kolis, but Sera still feels the weight of the situation. Bele takes Reaver to safety, leaving Nyktos and Sera alone.

Blood Healing
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Nyktos insists on giving Sera his blood to heal her injuries, warning her that she may not survive without it. Though hesitant, Sera agrees, knowing the risks. As she drinks his blood, Sera is overwhelmed by the powerful connection between them, experiencing a sense of peace and even a glimpse into one of Nyktos’s memories. However, the blood also ignites a familiar, uncontrollable lust within her.

Intense Desire
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Unable to resist the effects of Nyktos’s blood, Sera’s desire for him grows. Despite his warnings, the two give in to their shared need, leading to a passionate encounter. Nyktos struggles with guilt, knowing he shouldn’t be with Sera in this way, but the chemistry between them is undeniable. As the two are consumed by their connection, Sera offers Nyktos the chance to feed from her, but he resists, declaring that he doesn’t deserve her.
 
This chapter focuses on the escalating tension between Sera, Veses, and Nyktos, while also highlighting the deepening connection between Sera and Nyktos through both physical and emotional encounters.

Chapter 39 Recap - A Light in the Flame

 

In Nyktos's Quarters
Location: Nyktos’s private quarters, House of Haides
Sera sits with a sleeping Reaver in her lap, reflecting on everything that's happened. Nyktos enters after bathing, and the two discuss the state of things, particularly what to do with Veses. She’s been put into stasis, but Nyktos acknowledges that they can’t keep her imprisoned forever, nor can they release her without risking her informing Kolis about Sera.

Veses’ Manipulation
Location: Nyktos’s Quarters
As they talk, Sera presses Nyktos for answers about Veses, particularly why he told her that Sera was his Consort in title only. Nyktos avoids explaining in full, which frustrates Sera. She can sense there’s more he’s not telling her, especially about his relationship with Veses. Nyktos tries to reassure Sera about his feelings, telling her that he feels awe, curiosity, and peace when he’s with her, but Sera isn’t satisfied with the half-truths.

Getting Ready for the Coronation
Location: Sera’s Chambers
The next day, Erlina helps Sera prepare for her coronation. Bele is there too, making her usual jokes and distracting Sera with stories of giant spiders and snakes from other realms. Sera’s nerves are evident, but the gown Erlina has made is breathtaking, silver and sparkling with diamonds, designed to make Sera look like starlight. Despite the beautiful dress, Sera remains anxious about the upcoming ceremony and what it truly means to become Nyktos’s Consort.

Rhain’s Revelation
Location: Sera’s Chambers
After getting dressed, Sera asks to speak privately with Rhain. She wants to know the truth about Nyktos’s sacrifice. Rhain is reluctant but eventually reveals that Veses found out about the deal Eythos made with Sera’s ancestors years ago. To keep Veses quiet and protect Sera from Kolis, Nyktos agreed to let Veses feed from him whenever she wanted. This revelation shatters Sera—Nyktos has been sacrificing himself for her all along, allowing Veses to take his blood to keep her safe.

Sera’s Rage
Location: Sera’s Chambers
Horrified and furious, Sera’s emotions explode. The embers of life inside her respond to her rage, shaking the chandelier and filling the room with her power. Rhain, alarmed by her intensity, tries to calm her down, but Sera’s mind is set on vengeance. Now fully aware of what Veses has done to Nyktos, Sera declares that she will kill the Primal, no matter the cost.
 
This chapter reveals key insights into Nyktos’s sacrifices for Sera and sets the stage for a deeper confrontation with Veses.

Chapter 40 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Rhain Tries to Stop Sera
Location: Sera’s Quarters
Sera, filled with rage after learning about Nyktos’s sacrifices for her, intends to go after Veses. However, Rhain steps in to stop her, explaining that Veses’s days are numbered once Nyktos takes the embers and ascends as the Primal of Life. Sera struggles with the knowledge of what Nyktos has endured and feels guilty, unable to fathom why he would make such a sacrifice for her.

Rhain’s Admission
Rhain acknowledges that he misunderstood Sera, realizing her pain stems from seeing Nyktos and Veses together. He also explains that only Ector, Nektas, and himself know the full extent of Nyktos’s dealings with Veses. This revelation brings Sera a mix of guilt, fury, and sorrow. Rhain asks her if she loves Nyktos, but she is unable to give an answer.

Sera Prepares for the Coronation
Location: The Foyer, House of Haides
As Sera leaves her chambers, Bele, Saion, and other gods escort her to the courtyard where a carriage awaits. Before she leaves, Sera pauses, asking if Nyktos is safe, and is reassured that Nektas and the entire Shadowland army are guarding him. Ector joins her in the carriage, and during the journey, Sera reflects on her emotions. As she processes Rhain’s question, the realization hits her: she is in love with Nyktos.

The Coronation Procession
Location: The City Hall, Lethe
As the carriage arrives at the City Hall, Ector comforts Sera, recognizing that she’s nervous, but she admits that her feelings for Nyktos are what’s making her uneasy. Rhahar and Aios guide Sera toward the hall. Sera, overwhelmed by the enormity of the event, asks Aios what being in love feels like, and Aios describes it as a feeling of being "home" and "known." Sera realizes that she has felt this with Nyktos for a long time.

Meeting Ash
Location: The Hall, Lethe
When Sera enters the hall, her gaze locks onto Ash, the person she now realizes is not just Nyktos but her Ash. Time seems to stop as they stare at each other, and Ash’s touch sends a shock of awareness through her. As they walk together, Ash reassures Sera, whispering kind words and revealing that he has counted all of her freckles. His tenderness melts away her remaining anxieties.

The Ceremony Begins
Location: The Hall, Lethe
As they approach the dais, Rhain’s voice booms across the hall, announcing the arrival of the Asher, the Primal of Death, and the Guardian of Souls. All eyes turn to them, and Sera is only aware of Ash, her heart pounding as they step into their roles.
 
This chapter delves deeper into Sera’s emotions, leading to the climactic realization of her love for Nyktos, setting the stage for the coronation.

Chapter 41 Recap - A Light in the Flame

The Coronation Ceremony
Location: City Hall, Lethe
Sera and Ash walk down the aisle in the coliseum, surrounded by Primals, gods, and mortals. Sera is overwhelmed by the number of eyes on her, but Ash reassures her to stay calm. When they reach the dais, Ash kneels before her—an unusual and shocking display, causing murmurs throughout the crowd. Rhain lifts a crown made of shadowstone and diamonds, and Ash crowns Sera, telling her to bend slightly for the crown to settle on her head.
As they rise, Ash announces Sera as the Consort of the Shadowlands, and the crowd applauds. However, as they hold hands, a silvery-white glow emerges, marking an imprint on their palms—an ancient sign of favor from the Arae (Fates), which shocks the audience and the Primals. Ash explains to Sera that this imprint, often given by his father, marks their union as blessed.

Nektas and the Draken
As the imprint appears, the draken let out high-pitched calls and take flight in celebration. Nektas, in his draken form, descends onto the dais, causing awe and wariness among the attendees. Sera, now processing the imprint and her new status as Ash’s Consort, sits beside him, noticing the mark on both their hands.

The Imprint's Meaning
Ash clarifies that the imprint is a rare occurrence, signifying a favored union, though it hasn't happened in centuries. Sera wonders if it was the embers within her that caused the imprint. They joke briefly about how the imprint won't rub off, and Sera realizes the gravity of the imprint, which only fades upon death. The conversation turns to a more serious tone when Sera asks what happens if their union doesn't continue, but neither of them knows the answer as no one with the imprint has ever chosen to separate.

The Primals in Attendance
Sera observes the Primals at the event, including Maia, the Primal Goddess of Love and Fertility, and Phanos, the Primal of Wisdom. She also spots Keella, the Primal of Rebirth, who had helped Eythos. Sera is eager to speak to Keella, believing she might know more about Sotoria’s soul inside her. However, the presence of Nektas keeps most Primals and guests at a distance from the dais.

The Title of "Consort of the Shadowlands"
Ash reveals that Sera's new title was inspired by her hair, which reminds him of moonlight. The blood and ash reference, often spoken by the draken, symbolizes life and death—an appropriate and powerful title for Sera, given her own history and connection to the embers.

Attes's Visit
Attes, the Primal of Accord and War, approaches to congratulate them. His presence brings both tension and curiosity. He acknowledges the imprint as an unexpected development and subtly teases that he may visit the mortal realm, hoping for his own favor from the Arae. Ash and Sera respond coolly, and Attes leaves after reiterating his good wishes.

Keella's Arrival
Keella approaches, and Sera is nervous but in awe of the Primal of Rebirth. Keella inspects the imprint and marvels at its appearance after so many years, remarking that it is a beautiful blessing. Her words carry a subtle weight, and Sera suspects that Keella may know the truth about Sotoria’s soul. However, the moment passes without deeper conversation, and Keella departs after offering her blessing, mentioning that Ash’s father would be proud of him.
 
This chapter is rich in symbolism, with the imprint marking the official blessing of Sera and Ash's union. The presence of the Primals, especially Keella, adds intrigue, as Sera begins to understand the deeper forces at play.

Chapter 42 Recap - A Light in the Flame

 Post-Coronation Celebrations
After the coronation, Sera and Ash are swarmed by celebrators and well-wishers on the dais. Sera finds comfort in Ash’s touch, which is grounding amid the overwhelming attention. Ash leads Sera back to the carriage, and they prepare to leave the coliseum, accompanied by guards and soldiers. In the privacy of the carriage, Sera removes her crown, and Ash stores both their crowns in shadowstone boxes.

Intimacy in the Carriage
Ash invites Sera to sit with him, and the two share a moment of tenderness. Ash massages Sera's neck to ease the tension from wearing the crown, and the conversation soon shifts to their growing physical attraction. Ash expresses his obsession with hearing Sera call him "Ash" when she reaches the height of pleasure. This leads to an intimate encounter in the carriage, where Sera fulfills Ash’s desire.

Return to the Palace
Upon returning to the palace, Sera feels nervous, unsure if they will go their separate ways after the events of the evening. However, she finds the courage to express her desire to spend the night with Ash, either to talk or simply be together. Ash, taken aback by her vulnerability and beauty, agrees, and they head to his chambers.

Emotional Vulnerability
In Ash’s chambers, the conversation becomes more serious. Sera admits to Ash that she knows about his past with Veses—the Primal who fed on him—and expresses her gratitude for the sacrifice he made to protect her. Ash is visibly affected by her words, to the point where he accidentally crushes a glass in his hand. Sera carefully removes the shards of glass from his palm, and the two share a tender moment as they hold hands, stained with Ash’s blood.

Ash’s Confession
Ash opens up about his experience with Veses, explaining that while she fed from him, she never truly had him in the way she wanted. He reveals that Veses always desired Kolis, but since Kolis had no interest in her, she used Ash as a substitute. Ash recounts how Veses forced both pain and pleasure on him, and how he despised the situation but endured it to protect Sera. He admits that he didn’t want Sera to know about Veses, fearing she would feel responsible or pity him.

The Weight of Sacrifice
Sera comforts Ash, assuring him that she doesn’t blame him and is determined to see Veses dead for what she did to him. Despite his past trauma, Ash expresses gratitude for Sera being with him and for simply being herself. They end the conversation with a heartfelt embrace and a kiss, focusing on the present moment and their connection.
 
In this chapter, Sera and Ash deepen their bond, both physically and emotionally. Ash’s vulnerability about his past with Veses contrasts with his usual confidence, and Sera’s support further cements their growing relationship. The chapter ends on a hopeful note, with both characters finding comfort in each other despite the challenges they face.

Chapter 43 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Waking in Each Other's Arms
Sera awakens next to Ash after their intimate night together, both still recovering emotionally from their recent conversations. As they lie together, Sera becomes aware of Ash’s arousal. Despite her offer to be with him again, Ash hesitates, admitting he’s hungry and worried about losing control if he feeds from her. After a brief conversation, Sera convinces him to feed from her, reminding him of her role as his Consort and offering her trust. Ash reluctantly gives in, and their encounter turns both sensual and intense as he feeds from her while making love.

The Journey to Irelone
The next afternoon, Sera and Ash shadowstep to the outskirts of Cauldra Manor in Irelone, hoping to meet with a scholar named Delfai. Upon arrival, Ash notices that the shadowstepping feels easier for Sera, likely due to the increasing strength of the embers. Despite Sera’s nervousness, Ash reassures her, and they head toward the manor.

A Primal’s Entrance
As they approach the manor, they are stopped by guards who don’t initially believe Ash’s claim of being the Primal of Death. Amused, Ash decides to showcase his power. The air fills with shadows and eather, sending animals into a frenzy and causing the guards to drop to their knees in fear. After this display, the guards become compliant and lead Sera and Ash into the manor to meet Princess Kayleigh.

Reunion with Princess Kayleigh
Inside the manor, Sera reunites with Kayleigh, who is shocked to see her. Kayleigh, having only heard rumors of Sera’s whereabouts, is especially stunned to learn that Sera is now the Consort of the Primal of Death. Kayleigh mentions her experiences with Primals, and Sera and Ash both reassure her that they mean no harm. Kayleigh recognizes the name Delfai, the scholar they’re seeking, and mentions that he’s been teaching her ancient languages.

Revelation of Tavius’s Fate
During their conversation, Kayleigh expresses relief upon learning of Prince Tavius’s death, as his existence had been an ongoing burden in her life. She had been unable to fully move on while people still saw her as his betrothed. Sera reassures her that she is free from that situation, and Kayleigh realizes that Sera was never truly just a handmaiden, but someone far more important. Ash confirms that Sera was the rightful ruler of Lasania.
Meeting Delfai
With Kayleigh’s help, Sera and Ash are led to a chamber where Delfai is waiting. Upon entering the room, they are greeted by Delfai, who cryptically states that he’s been waiting for this moment for three long years.
 
In this chapter, Sera and Ash deepen their physical and emotional connection, but their focus quickly shifts to their mission as they travel to Irelone. The chapter ends with the anticipation of meeting Delfai, who seems to have been expecting them.

Chapter 44 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Meeting Delfai
Location: Library, Cauldra Manor
Sera and Ash meet Delfai, the god they’ve been seeking, in a dimly lit library. Delfai, dressed in a brilliant blue tunic, speaks cryptically, referencing the Balfour family and their honored name that will outlive kingdoms. He brings up an oracle connected to the family and shifts the conversation to what Ash and Sera truly seek: the knowledge of how to transfer embers from one being to another. Delfai reveals that the Arae, the Fates, once created a powerful conduit—a diamond known as the Star—to transfer and store embers. The Arae wanted something in case a new Primal had to rise without a Primal of Life to Ascend them.

The Star
The Star is a unique diamond, conjured from the heart of the Undying Hills, created by the flames of dragons that once lived in the mortal realm. The Arae needed this conduit for the ember transfer process, but its existence was meant to be kept secret. Delfai explains that the removal of the diamond from the mountains caused the once lush region to become barren, giving the hills their name. The diamond itself has been in Kolis’ possession for some time.

The Process of Transfer
Delfai explains that the process of transferring the embers is relatively simple: a Primal or an Arae needs to use the Star and create physical contact between the Primal who holds the embers and the recipient. However, Delfai adds that in Sera’s case, the transfer wouldn’t require the Star because she’s still mortal and hasn’t fully Ascended. The embers can be transferred directly.

Ash’s Destiny
Delfai points out that if the embers are transferred, Ash will become what he was always meant to be: the true Primal of Life and the King of Gods, which causes a strange reaction from Sera’s embers. They seem to respond to her emotions, revealing an underlying connection between them and her feelings. However, Delfai finally shares the crucial detail: to transfer the embers, Ash must feed from Sera until he takes every last drop of her blood.

The Cost
The revelation is devastating—Sera will die if Ash takes the embers from her. Delfai makes it clear that while Ash will become the true Primal of Life, Sera’s death is inevitable during the process. Both Sera and Ash are left with this shocking reality, and the tension of the situation settles in as they grapple with the cost of their goal.

In this chapter, Delfai reveals crucial information about the embers' transfer process, but it comes with the devastating price of Sera's life, putting Ash and Sera in an incredibly difficult position.

Chapter 45 Recap - A Light in the Flame

The Weight of Fate
Location: Library, Cauldra Manor, Red Woods, Near Cauldra Manor
The Devastating Revelation
In the library of Cauldra Manor, Delfai reveals the harsh truth: there is no way to remove the embers from Sera without killing her. The embers have merged with her, making her death inevitable if Ash drains them to become the true Primal of Life. Despite his desire to save her, Ash is told there is no other solution. His reaction is immediate and violent. Shadows churn, and energy crackles around him as he nearly kills Delfai in a fit of rage, grabbing the god by the throat. Only Sera’s pleas manage to calm Ash, reminding him that Delfai is not responsible for her fate. Reluctantly, Ash lets Delfai go, who cryptically mutters about a "silver beast and a brightest moon," suggesting a possible hope. However, the meaning of this remains unclear.

Ash’s Inner Struggle
As they leave Cauldra Manor, Sera processes the news with a strange calmness, almost numb to the devastating reality of her fate. Ash, however, remains furious, unwilling to accept that he must choose between saving the realms and losing Sera. The tension between them grows as they walk through the Red Woods, and Sera confronts Ash, forcing him to admit that he knew all along that removing the embers would kill her. His refusal to acknowledge this possibility before now stems from his love for her and his desperation to avoid the inevitable.

The Heartbreaking Decision
Sera, determined to stop Kolis and prevent the embers from falling into the wrong hands, tells Ash that there is no other way. Though she wants a future with Ash and a life where she is in control of her destiny, she knows what must be done. The embers must be removed, even if it means her death. She reassures Ash that this isn't his fault and urges him to accept that he must fulfill his destiny as the true Primal of Life. Ash, overcome with grief and frustration, struggles to accept this, but Sera's calm resolution forces him to face the harsh reality.

An Intimate Goodbye
Their conversation culminates in a deeply emotional and physical moment between the two, filled with sorrow, love, and longing. As they make love in the woods, their desperation and heartbreak are palpable. Ash expresses regret over having his kardia (heart) removed, admitting that if he could have loved her, he would have without hesitation. Sera, accepting their fate, asks Ash for one final promise: when the time comes for him to take her life, she wants it to happen by her lake. Ash, despite the agony of the request, promises to honor her wish.

Chapter 46 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Attack on the Shadowlands
Ash’s Palace, The Shadowlands
Sera and Ash return to the Shadowlands after the disturbing revelation of Sera's fate in Massene. While Sera contemplates her possible death in a matter of days, the couple’s moment of reflection is abruptly interrupted by chaos. As they arrive at Ash’s palace, the scent of burning wood and the overwhelming presence of death permeates the air. The palace is under attack.

The Attack Begins
Location:The Rise, The Shadowlands
Fire rains down upon the palace as drakens, dakkais, and soldiers swarm the Shadowlands. Ash quickly leaps from the balcony with Sera in his arms, landing them in the courtyard to assess the situation. Saion joins them, reporting that the attack is widespread, affecting not only their immediate area but also Lethe. Worse, Kyn, the son of Kolis and a Primal, is leading the assault. Tension thickens as Ash realizes the seriousness of the threat — a Primal attack orchestrated by Kolis’s forces.

Horrific Discovery in the Courtyard
Location: West Courtyard, The Shadowlands
Ash and Sera race to the West Courtyard, where Saion warns Sera not to follow. Ash pushes ahead despite Saion’s warning, and what they find leaves them both devastated. The courtyard is littered with the mutilated bodies of their allies. Ector, one of Ash’s loyal guards, is among the fallen, beheaded and displayed brutally. But the greatest blow comes when they find Aios, Sera’s dear friend, murdered with her heart torn from her chest.

Sera’s Grief and Decision
Overwhelmed by grief and anger, Sera glows with the power of the embers inside her. She wants to bring Aios and Ector back to life, but doing so would expose her powers and risk attracting more enemies. Despite Saion’s warnings, Sera chooses to ascend Aios using the embers, a decision she makes knowing the embers inside her will be transferred to Ash soon anyway. The eather flares as she channels her power into Aios, healing her wounds and reviving her.

Ash Takes on Davon
Meanwhile, Ash confronts Davon, the draken allied with Kolis. His Primal powers reach their peak as eather builds inside him, crackling through the air and creating a storm over the Shadowlands. Ash, in full Primal mode, summons his immense power to strike down the draken, breaking its wings with pure energy. His display of power is fearsome, showcasing the full extent of a Primal’s rage.

The Dakkais Swarm
As Sera revives Aios, dakkais breach the courtyard walls, drawn to the power of the embers. Sera attempts to save Ector as well, but the dakkais overwhelm the area, and Saion is forced to pull her away, knowing they can’t hold off the creatures forever. Despite the ferocity of the attack, Sera is unable to bring Ector back, and the realization of his permanent loss hits hard.

Ash’s Final Stand and the Betrayal
As Ash fights to protect the Shadowlands from the overwhelming force of enemies, Sera joins the battle. However, just as the dakkais are swarming and overwhelming their forces, Attes, the god who had promised to help Sera, appears. Sera is initially relieved to see him, believing him to be an ally, but her relief turns to horror when Attes reveals his true intentions. He seizes Sera, explaining that her surrender is the only way to stop the bloodshed.

The Heart-Wrenching Choice
As Sera struggles against Attes, she hears Ash calling out for her, fighting through dakkais and enemies to reach her. Attes presents her with an impossible choice: either surrender to Kolis’s forces and save the lives of those she loves, or resist and watch them all perish. With no other option left, Sera surrenders, removing the charm that had protected her. As Ash fights desperately to reach her, Sera is dragged into the shadows by Attes, realizing that she had no real choice from the beginning.
 

Chapter 47 Recap - A Light in the Flame

Dream of the Lake
Dreamscape: Seraphena’s Lake
Sera dreams of her peaceful lake, where she swims under the cool waters. As she surfaces, she first sees a silver wolf, but then the image shifts to Ash standing on the shore, a reminder of her deep connection with him. The peacefulness of the dream, however, shatters as she wakes to a dark reality.

The Gilded Cage
Location:The Gilded Cage, Kolis's Lair
Sera awakens in a gilded cage, realizing she has been captured by Kolis. The cage is luxurious yet confining, with gold bars surrounding her. She discovers a cold metal shackle around her neck, connected to a chain. The terrifying reality sets in, and panic begins to rise as she fully comprehends her situation.

Attes’s Betrayal
Sera recalls the events leading to her capture. Attes, whom she once believed to be an ally, betrayed her, handing her over to Kolis. The memory of him hitting her and the explosion of pain along the back of her skull confirms the depths of his treachery. Despite her anger and betrayal, she steels herself, determined to find a way back to Ash.

Callum’s Revelation
Sera is not alone in her cage. Callum, a Revenant with golden hair and pale blue eyes, greets her. His presence fills her with dread, and he wastes no time tormenting her with details of his past encounters with her mother, Queen Calliphe. Callum reveals that he has been working with Kolis for years, feeding her family vital information on how to kill a Primal, which ultimately leads to her current predicament.

Kolis’s Arrival
As the conversation with Callum continues, the partition wall opens, revealing the false King, Kolis. Sera realizes that she is in the presence of the one who has orchestrated much of the suffering in the realms. Kolis’s entrance is grand and intimidating, but Sera refuses to kneel, standing defiant despite her terror.
 
The Prophecy of Blood and Ash
Kolis’s Prophecy
Kolis shares a disturbing prophecy, one that Penellaphe had hinted at before. He refers to the ancient dream of the Ancients, a prophecy known to only a few. The prophecy speaks of the rise of a great primal power, born of blood and ash, destined to remake the realms. Kolis believes that Sera is the embodiment of this prophecy and that she will help him complete his Ascension, making him the Primal of Life and Death.

The Truth About Sera’s Embers
Through Kolis’s revelations, Sera learns that Kolis has always known about the embers inside her. He knew from the moment of her birth that she carried the embers of life, thanks to a deal made between her father and the Primal of Life, Eythos. Kolis had been waiting for the perfect moment when the embers reached their full potential before taking her.

Sera’s Rage
As Kolis explains his desire to overthrow the other Primals and become the sole ruler of the realms, Sera’s anger and fear grow. She is horrified to learn that everything Ash has sacrificed was for nothing, as Kolis has always known about her. The false King’s goal is to absorb the embers and become the most powerful being in existence, eliminating all who stand in his way.
 
Sotoria’s Soul Awakens
Sera’s Defiance
As Kolis prepares to drain Sera of her embers, she feels the presence of another within her — the soul of Sotoria, the woman Kolis once loved and killed. Sotoria’s anger and rage surge through Sera, allowing her to confront Kolis in a moment of shared history. Sera reveals the truth to Kolis, that Eythos placed Sotoria’s soul within her, making her the reincarnation of the woman Kolis once murdered.

Attes Intervenes
Attes arrives just as Kolis begins to drain Sera, confirming that Sotoria’s soul has indeed been reborn within her. His timely intervention causes Kolis to hesitate, realizing the truth. Sera’s pain is excruciating as Kolis’s fangs sink into her, but the presence of Sotoria’s soul gives her the strength to fight back, forcing Kolis to stop before fully draining her.

Ash’s Appearance
As Sera begins to lose consciousness from the blood loss, she catches a glimpse of a silver wolf in the shadows outside the cage. The vision is of Ash, the man she loves, who is more than just a Primal. The wolf symbolizes his connection to her and the prophecy they are both entangled in.

I hope you’ve enjoyed these detailed recaps of A Light in the Flame. From intense battles and powerful emotions to the deepening mysteries surrounding Sera and Ash, this book takes us further into a world where love, power, and destiny collide. If you’ve been captivated by the twists and revelations, there’s still much more to explore as the story continues. Stay tuned for more insights, and I look forward to sharing the next installment with you!

 Read Book 3 : A Fire in the Flesh