Elsewhere, in the moonlit courtyard of Griffin Manor;
Vanessa walked swiftly under the soft glow of the lanterns in absolute silence. She spotted Kaelen standing near the ancient plum tree with his hands behind his back while gazing at the night sky.
She approached and bowed deeply. "Master."
Kaelen turned to her, his expression calm but his eyes sharp. "Did you confirm?" he asked quietly.
Vanessa nodded. "Yes. I believe the seal was broken after consummation, but Master Icarus seemed unharmed." She paused, "The Lady must have suppressed it by her sheer will. Master Icarus might have also played a role, but I didn't dare to disturb their night."
Kaelen's lips twitched into a faint, knowing smile. "Then it's fine."
He waved his hand, dismissing her silently. Vanessa bowed once more and disappeared into the shadows.
As the silence of the courtyard settled once more, Kaelen turned to the plum tree and placed a palm against its bark.
