The Baroness's hand slowly slid from Lucas's cheek, as if the last of her strength had just been drained away. She took a step back, her shoulders finally losing their tension, though her eyes still held the lingering remnants of an emotional storm.
"I will let you live," she whispered, her voice hoarse. "But please... if you must occupy that vessel, change how people see Lucian."
Lucas gave a slow, solemn nod. No words left his lips, only a silent vow etched into his heart. Nearby, Baron Aleric let out a long, heavy sigh. Unlike his emotional wife, Aleric appeared far more composed. His sharp gaze fixed on Lucas with a different intensity now—no longer viewing him as a threat, but as a blank canvas.
Perhaps, the Baron thought, I can teach this boy the things I never had the chance to give the original Lucian.
