Matteo's death shattered Aurelia more than she admitted.
In the quiet of the infirmary, she traced the cracked bloodstone amulet he'd worn the one gifted to her when they were children. He had once vowed to protect her future.
Now, his blood had bought her a chance to have one.
Lucien stood in silence beside her, unable to offer words. Instead, he placed Matteo's blade at her feet and said softly, "We won't forget him."
Aurelia whispered, "We will avenge him."